Russell Wilson is once again in the headlines, not for a game-winning play, but for a postgame jab at his former coach. Following the Denver Broncos’ 33-32 win over the New York Giants, the current Giants quarterback fired back at Broncos head coach Sean Payton, calling him “classless” on social media.
Wilson’s pointed message came after Payton made comments about the Giants’ recent quarterback change, implying he was glad the shift to rookie Jaxson Dart happened after their game. The subtle swipe was enough to reignite old tensions between Wilson and Payton, whose rocky partnership in Denver lasted two forgettable seasons.
Responding on X, Wilson referenced Payton’s infamous history, invoking the “Bountygate” scandal that led to the coach’s year-long suspension in 2012. It was a sharp rebuke aimed at a coach he clearly feels hasn’t moved on from controversial tactics.
The beef traces back to Denver, where Wilson’s stint was marred by underperformance and internal friction. Though he managed over 3,000 passing yards and 26 touchdowns last season, Wilson was benched late in the year. The move was widely seen as a financial maneuver to avoid activating a $37 million injury guarantee in his contract. According to Wilson, team officials gave him an ultimatum after a Week 8 win: restructure the deal or sit.
Unwilling to sacrifice injury protections in such a physically punishing sport, Wilson stood firm—and paid the price. The Broncos cut him loose in the offseason, taking on a staggering $85 million in dead salary cap.
Sunday’s war of words makes it clear: while Wilson and Payton may have gone their separate ways, their grievances are far from settled.
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