Sean Payton clears the air after Wilson’s ‘classless’ jab, says comments ‘in no way, shape or form directed at Russ’

After the Broncos'  dramatic 33-32 comeback win over the Giants on Sunday , Payton dropped what appeared to be a backhanded compliment.

While praising Dart’s impact since taking over the offense, Payton recalled a conversation with Giants owner John Mara, in which he expressed his wish that the rookie hadn’t started until after their matchup.

From Wilson's point of view, Payton was clearly expressing his preference to have faced him, not Dart.

That alone would sting any backup quarterback, but the kicker is that Wilson used to play for Payton in Denver, and it was Payton who benched him back in 2023.

Wilson took exception to those comments and fired back on social media.

The reference to “bounty hunting” wasn’t random. It was a direct jab at the 2012 New Orleans Saints bounty scandal , which occurred during Payton's tenure as head coach and resulted in his one-year suspension.

Now, seemingly keen to avoid any more drama surrounding this story, Payton has attempted to clear the air.

"The euphoria, the way that game unfolded, that was strictly about Dart," he told reporters on Wednesday.

"That was in no way, shape, or form directed at Russ. I might be able to see how he would perceive that."

Leaving no room for doubt, Payton continued, "That wasn't any intention at all."

There’s clearly no love lost between the two, but for now at least, the argument appears to have been put to bed.

Either way, it’s another fun subplot in what’s already been a dramatic NFL season.

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