Russell Wilson Blasts Sean Payton as ‘Classless’ in Fiery NFL Feud Escalation

New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson publicly called Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton “classless.” This happened on social media this week. The comment was a direct response to postgame remarks from Payton.

Wilson’s retort references a painful chapter from Payton’s past. It escalates a simmering rivalry between the former coach and player.

Social Media Jab Follows Payton’s Postgame Comments

The conflict ignited after the Broncos’ dramatic comeback win. According to reports from the Associated Press, Payton hinted he was glad to face Wilson’s Giants team now. He suggested he had a prior conversation with Giants owner John Mara.

Payton implied he hoped a quarterback change would happen after their game. Rookie Jaxson Dart has since replaced Wilson as the Giants’ starter. Wilson did not take the comment lightly.

He responded on the platform X, formerly Twitter. “Classless… but not surprised…,” Wilson wrote. His post quickly gained traction across the sports world.

Wilson References Infamous “Bountygate” Scandal

Wilson’s retaliation included a pointed historical reference. He accused Payton of “bounty hunting” through the media. This alludes to the NFL‘s “Bountygate” scandal from over a decade ago.

The league found the New Orleans Saints, then coached by Payton, operated a bounty program. The program rewarded players for injuring opponents. Payton was suspended for the entire 2012 season as a result.

This connection adds significant weight to Wilson’s criticism. It frames Payton’s recent dig as part of a broader pattern. The exchange highlights the strained nature of their previous working relationship in Denver.

The fallout from this public spat continues to reverberate through the NFL, underscoring the deep-seated tensions between the veteran quarterback and his former coach.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did Sean Payton say about Russell Wilson?

After the Broncos’ win, Payton said he told Giants owner John Mara he hoped their quarterback change happened after their game. This was widely seen as a swipe at Wilson, suggesting Payton preferred to play against him.

How did Russell Wilson respond?

Wilson responded on social media, calling Payton’s comments “classless.” He also referenced the old “Bountygate” scandal, accusing Payton of “bounty hunting” through the media.

What is the “Bountygate” scandal?

“Bountygate” was an NFL scandal where the New Orleans Saints were found to have a system rewarding players for injuring opponents. Coach Sean Payton was suspended for the entire 2012 season as punishment.

Are Russell Wilson and Sean Payton still with the same team?

No. They are no longer together. Wilson played for Payton in Denver for two seasons before an “ugly breakup.” Wilson is now a backup for the New York Giants, and Payton remains the head coach of the Denver Broncos.

Who is the starting quarterback for the New York Giants now?

Rookie Jaxson Dart is now the starting quarterback for the Giants. He took over the role after the team started the season with an 0-3 record under Russell Wilson.