Wilson's Jab at Payton Steals Spotlight Before Broncos-Chiefs
Russell Wilson, now a CBS analyst, made headlines Sunday when he took a subtle swipe at Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton during "The NFL Today+" pregame show. While predicting the winner of the Broncos-Chiefs Week 8 matchup, Wilson said, "Sean Payton, you may like me, you may not, but I'm picking you!" The comment, delivered with a smile, referenced the pair's strained history from Wilson's two-year tenure in Denver.
Wilson was speaking live from Empower Field at Mile High, where he returned to Denver in his new role as a media personality. He ultimately picked the Broncos to defeat the Kansas City Chiefs, praising quarterback Bo Nix for his improved play and explosive ability. The gesture appeared to be a playful olive branch wrapped in a jab, acknowledging the frosty relationship while still supporting his former team.
A History of Tension
The relationship between Wilson and Payton has been rocky since Payton became Broncos head coach in 2023. Wilson, who arrived in Denver via a blockbuster trade in 2022 with high expectations, struggled mightily in his first season as the Broncos finished 5-12. Things improved slightly under Payton, but the partnership soured when Payton benched Wilson for the final two games of the 2023 season to avoid triggering a $37 million injury guarantee for 2025. Wilson was released in March 2024, leaving Denver with $85 million in dead cap money.
The bad blood resurfaced publicly in October 2025 when Payton, whose Broncos had just faced the New York Giants, commented on the Giants' quarterback switch to rookie Jaxson Dart, saying he wished the change had happened after their game. Wilson, who had been benched in favor of Dart, fired back on social media, calling Payton "classless" and referencing the Bountygate scandal that led to Payton's 2012 suspension.
Wilson's Complicated Feelings for Denver
Despite the tension with Payton, Wilson's affection for the Broncos organization and fanbase remains evident. In a CBS Sports segment, he said, "I feel like I'm back home baby, a little bit. I got kicked out of here a little bit, but I still feel like it's home." The comment captured the duality of his Denver experience: a disappointing on-field stint marred by conflict with his head coach, yet a city and team he still holds close.
Wilson's post-Broncos career has been nomadic. He spent the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers and signed with the New York Giants in 2025, where he was eventually benched for rookie Jaxson Dart. Now, in his first full season as a CBS analyst, Wilson is learning the ropes of television and proving he isn't afraid to mix it up with his old coach. His jab at Payton was lighthearted but unmistakably pointed, a reminder that the wounds from his Denver departure haven't fully healed.
Broncos on the Rise Under Payton
Meanwhile, Payton's Broncos are enjoying a resurgence. After an inconsistent start, Denver has won three straight and sits at 5-2, second in the AFC West behind the 5-1 Chiefs. The Week 8 matchup at Empower Field is a crucial test for a team looking to establish itself as a contender. Wilson's pick of the Broncos, despite his history with Payton, suggests he recognizes their potential.
The game itself carries significant stakes. A win over Kansas City would pull Denver within a game of the division lead and cement their status as a playoff threat. For Payton, a victory would further validate his rebuild and perhaps quiet the lingering narrative of his handling of Wilson. For Wilson, the moment was a chance to show he can be objective in his analysis while still having fun with his past.
A New Chapter in Broadcasting
Wilson's transition to broadcasting has been smooth so far, with his charismatic personality and deep knowledge of the game making him a natural fit. His willingness to engage with his own storylines—including his rocky exit from Denver—adds a layer of intrigue that networks crave. As he continues to develop as an analyst, moments like Sunday's will only raise his profile.
In a league where quarterback drama dominates headlines, Wilson's jab at Payton served as a reminder that narratives linger. But it also showed a player comfortable in his new role, using humor to address old wounds. For Broncos fans, the sight of their former quarterback picking them to win—even with a playful dig at their coach—might be the closest thing to closure they'll get.
The Broncos and Chiefs kick off Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET. Wilson will be watching from the CBS studio, perhaps with a knowing smile.
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