Au contraire -- MRTC forward of the exit row in an MD-80 does not provide that much additional leg room. The seats aft of the exit row have lots more legroom.
This was done because AA wanted to remove two rows of seats, and the position of the exit rows are fixed (unless you remove the exit rows entirely).
You have to choose between More Room and Less Noise Throughout Coach.
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"It's as easy as 1, 2, C" -- Kelly, Married With Children