New York Giants QB Russell Wilson labels former coach Sean Payton ‘classless’ after post-game comments - CNN

Original story by: CNN Last updated: Oct 22, 2025

Context: New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson criticized his former head coach Sean Payton, calling him "classless" after Payton made comments following the Broncos' victory over the Giants. The exchange highlights ongoing tension stemming from their time together with the Denver Broncos.
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Detailed Summary:
- Russell Wilson publicly responded to comments made by Sean Payton after the Denver Broncos' 33-32 win against the New York Giants.
- Payton had suggested that the Giants found a "spark" with their rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, who replaced Wilson, and expressed a wish that this change had occurred after their game.
- Wilson alluded to the "Bountygate" scandal, for which Payton was suspended in 2012, suggesting Payton was still engaging in similar tactics through the media.
- The tension between Wilson and Payton is rooted in their two seasons with the Broncos (2022-2023), where the team had an 11-19 record and failed to make the playoffs.
- Wilson was benched in the 2023 season despite throwing for over 3,000 yards and was subsequently released by the Broncos, with the team incurring a significant dead salary cap hit.
- Wilson stated that the Broncos allegedly threatened to bench him for the remainder of the 2023 season if he did not waive his injury guarantee clause.
- Wilson refused to alter his injury guarantee, citing the physical nature of the game and his career.