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New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this week, responding to latest comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not shocked...," Wilson declared 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 2009-11, when Payton led the Saints.

During that period, the NFL determined that the Saints had incentivized team members for making hard hits on opponents. As a result, Payton was suspended from the league for one season.

What Sparked the Latest Exchange

The quarterback's reaction came after Payton made comments following Denver's historic comeback victory over the Giants. Payton remarked that the team had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson instead of Dart.

"I spoke to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened long after our game,'" Payton stated.

Background of the Wilson-Payton Relationship

• Wilson was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245M extension.
• The Broncos finished 4-11 in his first season before the team brought in Payton, who was returning to coaching after a period in broadcasting.
• Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 season, a move that ensured the quarterback from suffering an injury.

If Wilson stayed on the roster by March 2024, his $37 million salary for the following year would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the player and his mentor.