Broncos HC Sean Payton reacts to Russell Wilson’s comments
After the Denver Broncos edged out the New York Giants in Week 7 action last Sunday, head coach Sean Payton’s words have put him at the center of controversy.
Payton previously voiced that he hoped the Broncos would face rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart instead of Russell Wilson.
It didn’t take long for his remarks to reach Wilson, who took to social media to share his reaction.
“Classless… but not surprised…. Didn’t realize you’re still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media,” Wilson said via X.
Payton responded by stating that in no way were his comments directed toward Wilson in a disrespectful manner.
“I did [see it],” Payton said Wednesday via ESPN. “In the euphoria, the way that game unfolded, that was strictly about Dart. And that was in no way, shape or form anything that was directed at Russ. And I might be able to see how he might perceive that. Coming off that win and watching how [Dart] played, that wasn’t any intention at all.”
Even if Payton didn’t intend his comments to be interpreted that way, it’s easy to portray them that way because of how rocky his tenure with Wilson was in Denver.
The 10-time Pro Bowler spent just two seasons with the Broncos, which saw him hold an 11-19 record as a starter and failed to make the playoffs. He was benched by Payton with two games left in the 2023 season and released in March 2024, despite a massive $85 million in dead money.
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It wouldn’t be surprising if there’s still some disdain on both sides, which likely led to this situation becoming much bigger than it should have. Nonetheless, it’s another chapter in that saga that both parties want to put behind them.
