Russell Wilson Calls Former Coach Sean Payton ‘Classless’
Russell Wilson Calls Former Coach Sean
Payton ‘Classless’ After Broncos Victory
The tension between Russell Wilson and Sean Payton has officially gone public. After the Denver Broncos’ narrow 33–32 victory over the New York Giants on Sunday, former Broncos quarterback and current Giants starter Russell Wilson called his ex-coach Sean Payton “classless” for his post-game remarks.
“Classless… but not surprised,” Wilson posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Didn’t realize you’re still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media.” The “bounty hunting” reference alluded to the Bountygate scandal that involved Payton’s New Orleans Saints from 2009–2011.
🔥 What Triggered the Controversy
After the Broncos’ dramatic comeback win, Payton commented: “They found a little spark with that quarterback,” referring to rookie Jaxson Dart, who replaced Wilson as the Giants’ starter after a disappointing 0–3 start. Payton added that he’d told Giants owner John Mara he hoped that “change would’ve happened long after our game.”
Wilson, clearly insulted, saw the remarks as unnecessary and disrespectful — especially coming from his former head coach. The jab reignited long-standing friction between the two, dating back to their tumultuous time together in Denver.
💥 Revisiting the Broncos Fallout
The Wilson–Payton partnership was short-lived. Between 2022 and 2023, the Broncos went 11–19 under Wilson’s starts, missing the playoffs both years. Despite 3,000+ passing yards and 26 touchdowns in 2023, Wilson was benched in the final weeks of the season. His eventual release left Denver with an $85 million dead cap hit — one of the most expensive in NFL history.
At the time, Wilson claimed the team pressured him to restructure his injury guarantee clause, threatening to bench him if he refused. “We beat the Chiefs,” Wilson recalled. “They came up to me during the bye week and said if I didn’t change my contract, I’d be benched the rest of the year.”
Quote: “I wasn’t going to take away injury guarantees,” Wilson said. “This game is too physical. I’ve played for 12 years — that matters to me.”
⚖️ The “Bountygate” Shadow Returns
The controversy also reopens old wounds. In 2012, Payton was suspended for one year without pay after the NFL found the Saints ran a “bounty system” — paying players bonuses for injuring opponents. Although Payton denied direct involvement, the scandal left a stain on his reputation.
Wilson’s “still bounty hunting” jab implies Payton hasn’t changed — a pointed criticism suggesting a pattern of unethical competitiveness.
🏟️ What’s Next for Wilson and the Giants?
Despite the controversy, Wilson remains focused on proving himself in New York. Rookie Jaxson Dart’s presence adds internal competition, but Wilson’s experience could be vital for the Giants’ playoff hopes. Analysts note this feud may motivate both teams — and the NFL media — for a fiery rematch in the future.
✈️ Book NFL Game Flights on TicketFlyAir💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why did Russell Wilson leave the Broncos?
A. Contract disputes and underperformance led to his release after two seasons. Denver avoided $37 million in injury guarantees by benching him.
Q. What is “Bountygate”?
A. A scandal involving Payton’s New Orleans Saints, where players received bonuses for injuring opponents. Payton was suspended for one season in 2012.
Q. Will there be a Broncos–Giants rematch?
A. Not in the regular 2025 schedule, but fans and media are already anticipating a high-stakes reunion in the coming seasons.