A 'typical' trip EU-NA-Asia-EU means the maximum possible is 17 segments (4+6+4+3 intercontinental) so to max the trip you'll have at least 5 in NA, whatever else you had in mind. Given the one-transcon limit and AA's paucity of longish north-south nonstops (and lots of competitively-priced alternatives for domestic travel) the new limit is quite disappointing.

Hopefully trips initiated before 31 Aug are grandfathered to the old rules, but best be prepared to 'discuss' the matter with the airline. (Anyone with on-going business with the AA RTW desk could please ask their agent how s/he thinks the new rule applies to old tickets and advise here, thanks.)