Yes, I suppose things can always be worse. I think DL’s configuration might be the best, though not a fan of only 16 J particularly if they are going to fly them for premium transcon routes.

I think I got spoiled when United started using the true Polaris widebodies on EWR-SFO/LAX and got spoiled with aisle access from every seat with relatively large J cabins. But in reality that type of configuration isn’t very sustainable so it boils down to going back to 2-2 (though more than the pmCO 752 and more like the 28J pmUA 752) which were roomy and probably preferred for couples.

And as was pointed out, the A321T was also a good mix of 1-1 and 2-2, but again not super efficient and AA not being able to invest in premium experience to get premium revenue out of the product was bound to doom that configuration.

Or go with 1-1 but albeit super tight, probably not as comfortable and not as passenger friendly with the lav ratios.