Giants QB Wilson Responds at Ex-Mentor Sean Payton Regarding Jaxson Dart Remarks
New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this week, reacting to latest comments from his former coach Sean Payton.
"Classless... but not surprised...," Wilson declared via social media. "Had no idea you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the media."
The quarterback's response pointed to the notorious Bounty Gate issue from 2009-11, when Payton led the Saints.
During that period, the league found that the Saints had rewarded players for delivering hard hits on opponents. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the league for a full year.
The Cause of the Latest Exchange
Wilson's reaction came after Payton delivered comments after Denver's historic 33-32 victory over the Giants. Payton suggested that the team had "found a little spark" with Jaxson Dart, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Moreover, Payton hinted that he had informed team owner John Mara that he would prefer facing Wilson over Dart.
"I spoke to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened well after our game,'" the coach commented.
Background of the Wilson-Payton Relationship
- The quarterback was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million contract.
- The team finished 4-11 in his first season before Denver brought in Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
- The coach replaced Wilson late into the 2023 season, a decision that prevented the quarterback from suffering an injury.
Had Wilson stayed on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million salary for 2025 would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was let go, marking the ugly split between the player and his coach.
