Payton taking away his office, parking spots for his gameday entourage, banning the “let’s ride” stuff, etc (basically demoting him to team-player status) probably has a lot to do with the lower level of hate from his peers.

RW cutting some excess fat and dropping weight likely helped as well. Showing his teammates he’s not just talking about being a hard worker (declaring his hard work mid-flight). The leaner frame tells everyone he’s been working hard without opening his mouth.

All of the above = him becoming less hateable.