Giants QB Wilson Responds at Former Coach Sean Payton Over Jaxson Dart Remarks
NY Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this week, reacting to latest criticism from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.
"Tasteless... but not shocked...," Wilson declared via social media. "Didn't realize you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the press."
Wilson's remarks directly referenced the notorious Bounty Gate issue from 2009-11, when Payton led the Saints.
At that time, the league determined that the Saints had rewarded players for making aggressive tackles on rival teams. Consequently, Payton was suspended from the NFL for a full year.
The Cause of the Recent Exchange
Wilson's reaction came after Payton made remarks following Denver's remarkable 33-32 victory over the New York. Payton suggested that the team had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Moreover, Payton hinted that he had told team owner John Mara that he would prefer facing Wilson over Dart.
"I spoke to John Mara recently and I said, 'We were hoping that the switch would've happened long after our game,'" the coach stated.
Background of the Wilson-Payton Relationship
- Wilson was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million contract.
- The Broncos finished 4 wins and 11 losses in his debut year before the team brought in Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a stint in TV commentary.
- Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 season, a move that ensured the quarterback from suffering an injury.
Had Wilson remained on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, marking the ugly split between the quarterback and his mentor.
