Yes yes yes. I'm pretty damn sure Bird wanted to give his best efforts when he came to the Broncos. I also think shit just kept coming that impeded those efforts. Punch in the nuts followed punch in the nuts yet I believe he kept trying.
I put myself in his shoes, as much as anyone can and I try to imagine how he felt. I tend to think if it was me I'd try to convince (by doing) my bosses and team mates that I was doing everything I could to get out on the paddock and win some games.
I'd also feel like I couldn't win no matter how hard I tried. What I'd struggle to deal with would be gutless, faceless, nameless dick suckers who put my efforts down, calling me names, shitting on me when I'd moved heaven and earth to get back on the field.