To remain EXP (I normally cross 100K in Dec.) I don't get to use RDMs much. Since AA has now thrown EQD + EQM into the requalifying equation it is NOT likely that I'll make EXP for 2018 = I'll fly cheapest fare (on OTHER carriers) and/or start using my hoard of RDMs--I would "guess" other pax are in the same boat (as me).
RDM* miles are a closed end system, AA dictates how you can earn and spend them. SAAver fares are nice on paper, but if they are not offered much (or at all), you would have to use twice as many to go anywhere.
I'm speculating that the elite ranks will diminish in a big way by the end of 2017, but since AA is in total control, they will tweak the RDM system to their aadvantage.
*There are few systems that are so controlled; even the Federal Reserve bank which controls the "value" of the $ does NOT work in an isolated system, other world currencies have to be factored in.