I had a similar experience. Booked a very last-minute trip on Tuesday using miles to fly MSP-EWR on Wednesday (to go to the world series game last night). When I checked in, I was offered the upgrade. Upgraded at the gate. I was #3 of 11 and I believe there were only three available seats. On the return this morning, also offered an upgrade, #1 of 1 on the waiting list, upgraded at the gate. F went out with 1 open seat. So NW is apparently still UG'ing award tickets.