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New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson didn't mince words on social media this Tuesday, responding to recent comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not shocked...," Wilson stated via social media. "Didn't realize you're still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media."

The quarterback's remarks directly referenced the infamous bounty scandal controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the Saints.

During that period, the league found that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering hard hits on opponents. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.

What Sparked the Latest Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton delivered remarks following Denver's historic comeback win over the New York. Payton suggested that the Giants had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Moreover, Payton implied that he had informed team owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson over Dart.

"I was talking to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened long after our game,'" the coach commented.

Background of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• The quarterback joined the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a 5-year, $245 million extension.
• The team finished 4-11 in his debut year prior to Denver hired Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• Payton benched Wilson 15 games into the 2023 season, a move that ensured the player from getting injured.

Had Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been locked in. In the end, Wilson was released, marking the ugly breakup between the quarterback and his coach.