New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson has hit back at his former coach Sean Payton, calling him 'classless' after Payton made comments suggesting he preferred facing Wilson over current Giants starter Jaxson Dart. Wilson took to social media on Tuesday to express his displeasure, referencing Payton's involvement in the 'Bounty Gate' scandal during his time with the New Orleans Saints.
Payton had said on Sunday, following the Denver Broncos' dramatic 33-32 comeback win over the Giants, that the Giants had 'found a little spark' with Dart, who replaced Wilson as the team's starting quarterback. Payton also claimed he told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather face Wilson than Dart.
Wilson, who joined the Broncos in a trade from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million extension, struggled under Payton. He was benched 15 games into the 2023 season, a move that prevented his $37 million salary for 2025 from becoming guaranteed. Wilson was later released, ending a contentious relationship between the quarterback and his coach.
In his response, Wilson wrote: 'Classless… but not surprised…. Didn’t realize you’re still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media.' The 'Bounty Gate' scandal, which occurred from 2009 to 2011, saw the Saints reward players for hard hits on opponents, leading to a one-year suspension for Payton.
