There are many Angus that are scored at sales time as 18 month old bulls. Their genomic boost is likely created by scores of young cattle as well. Their scores are wonderful. But within a year or less the quality diminishes. I've seen it on trial AI bulls and it is commonly occurring. The folks who sell them still brag on the foot quality because they see good and score it for the EPDs. The major issue is the quick turnover of generations. Folks want new, shiny and better. So they keep the young bull deal going to breed to the hope that the EPDs are correct for older cattle, buy hot named outcross semen and such. Many registered herds are not proving grounds. They list a herd battery but they keep moving on to other genetics or a new generation. I call this a self-fulfilling prophesy. You create your own outcome.
I agree that there are good cattle left. But which ones? I'd say that they are the ones that still have good feet at 4 to 10 years old. Early hopes and dreams are ruined just like the udder thread on here showing balloon and coke bottle teats. You cannot cull that in an 18 month old or a 2 year old animal.