Russell Wilson broke his usual composed public persona on Tuesday, October 21 criticizing Broncos coach Sean Payton over remarks made following Denver‘s win against the New York Giants.
Wilson called out Payton‘s comments on social media as after the game, the Denver boss said he wished New York’s switch from Wilson to rookie Jaxson Dart “would have happened long after our game”.
That signalled he preferred facing Wilson over Dart in the matchup and Russell was not keen on the comment as he responded on X.
“Classless… but not surprised….,” Wilson wrote. “Didn’t realize you’re still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media.”
He added a couple of laughing emojis and “Let’s Ride,” referencing Payton‘s 2012 suspension during the NFL bounty scandal, when he was sidelined for the season due to violations.
Payton‘s comment clearly struck a nerve, as Wilson rarely addresses opposing coaches publicly.
Still, Payton is not alone in preferring Wilson over the rookie, as many questioned Dart‘s readiness following a recent concussion evaluation.
The concussion check occurred 12 days prior, and fans at MetLife Stadium expressed unease about Wilson returning to action. The situation stemmed from coach Brian Daboll‘s wish to see if Dart could play on a crucial fourth-down scenario.
Daboll later clarified that if Dart had been cleared, he would have called a timeout before the attempt, implying he would not have attempted the play with Wilson under center, highlighting lingering strategic tensions.
The tension dates back to Wilson‘s benching late in the 2023 season, designed to protect him from an injury that would have affected his guaranteed contracts in 2024 and 2025. The benching ultimately cost Wilson $37 million he expected.
Who do the Giants play in Week 8? Date, time and where to watch New York game
In Week 8, the New York Giants face the Philadelphia Eagles in a pivotal matchup at Lincoln Financial Field.
Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart will lead the Giants against Eagles star Jalen Hurts in what could be a do-or-die contest for New York’s season.
The game is scheduled for Sunday at 13:00 ET/10:00 PT and will be broadcast nationally on FOX, with local coverage available on YES Network.
This clash is particularly significant as Dart seeks to prove his readiness under pressure while the Giants aim to secure a vital NFC East victory against one of the league’s top teams.
The Eagles, meanwhile, look to assume full command of the division with the Washington Commanders in a tough match-up with the Kansas City Chiefs, whilst the Broncos take on the Dallas Cowboys.
Fans can expect high stakes, aggressive play-calling, and a direct test of Dart‘s development against Hurts‘ dual-threat abilities.
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