Russell Wilson Responds at Ex-Mentor Sean Payton Regarding Jaxson Dart Comments
NY Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this week, responding to latest criticism from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.
"Classless... but not shocked...," Wilson declared via social media. "Had no idea you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the press."
The quarterback's response pointed to the notorious Bounty Gate issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the Saints.
At that time, the league found that the Saints had rewarded players for delivering hard hits on opponents. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.
What Sparked the Recent Dispute
The quarterback's response came after Payton delivered remarks after Denver's historic 33-32 win over the New York. 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 informed Giants owner John Mara that he would prefer 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 stated.
Context of the Coach-QB Partnership
- Wilson was traded to the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million extension.
- The Broncos went 4 wins and 11 losses in his debut year prior to the team brought in Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in broadcasting.
- Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a decision that ensured the player from suffering an injury.
Had Wilson stayed on the roster by March 2024, his $37M salary for 2025 would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was released, marking the contentious breakup between the player and his coach.
