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New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this Tuesday, responding to latest comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson stated via social media. "Had no idea you're still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media."

Wilson's response pointed to the notorious Bounty Gate issue from 2009-11, when Payton was coaching the Saints.

During that period, the NFL found that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering hard hits on opponents. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for a full year.

The Cause of the Latest Dispute

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered comments following Denver's historic 33-32 win over the New York. Payton remarked that the team had "found a little spark" with Jaxson Dart, who has taken over Wilson as the first-string QB.

Moreover, Payton implied that he had told team owner John Mara that he would prefer playing against Wilson over Dart.

"I spoke to John Mara recently and I said, 'We were hoping that the switch would've happened well after our game,'" the coach commented.

Background of the Coach-QB Relationship

• The quarterback joined the Denver from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a 5-year, $245 million contract.
• The team went 4 wins and 11 losses in his debut year prior to Denver brought in Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a period in TV commentary.
• Payton replaced Wilson 15 games into the 2023 campaign, a decision that ensured the quarterback from suffering an injury.

If Wilson remained on the team by March 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the quarterback and his mentor.