Russell Wilson Fires Back at Sean Payton’s 'Classless' Comments

Russell Wilson didn’t stay silent after hearing Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton’s latest comments about him. Following Denver’s 33–32 comeback win over the New York Giants, Payton admitted he had hoped the Giants’ quarterback change—from Wilson to rookie Jaxson Dart—had come after their matchup. The comment might have seemed harmless, but it didn’t sit well with Wilson, who took to social media to fire back.

“Classless… but not surprised,” Wilson posted on X. “Didn’t realize you’re still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media.” The jab referenced Payton’s involvement in the infamous “Bountygate” scandal during his time coaching the New Orleans Saints, which resulted in a one-year suspension in 2012.

Payton’s Comments Spark a Reaction

After Sunday’s victory, Payton reflected on his ties to the Giants and casually mentioned his preference for facing Wilson instead of Dart. “They found a little spark with that quarterback,” Payton said. “I was talking to John Mara not too long ago and said we were hoping that change would’ve happened long after our game.”

Those words quickly caught Wilson’s attention, and his fiery response hinted at lingering tension between the two. Wilson, now serving as the Giants’ backup, spent time before the game signing memorabilia for both fanbases, marking his return to Denver for the first time since his departure.

A Rocky End in Denver

Wilson’s stint with the Broncos never lived up to expectations. Acquired in a blockbuster 2022 trade with Seattle, he finished with an 11–19 record as a starter and missed the playoffs both years. His relationship with Payton deteriorated during the 2023 season, culminating in a late-year benching and his eventual release despite $85 million in dead money.

Reports later surfaced that Denver had pressured Wilson to waive a $37 million injury guarantee in his contract, something the NFL Players Association said would violate the collective bargaining agreement. Broncos owner Greg Penner denied those claims, insisting the team had acted “in good faith.”

Lingering Frustration

For Wilson, Payton’s recent comments reopened old wounds. The veteran quarterback, once seen as a cornerstone in Denver, became a symbol of the franchise’s failed rebuild under Payton’s watch. Now in New York, Wilson appears focused on contributing where he can—but he hasn’t forgotten how things ended in Denver.

His sharp response on social media suggests that whatever professional respect once existed between the two may have been permanently fractured.