@mm43. Not sure what you are reading into the trace, but they were still AP coupled so I'd think the yoke forces would be pretty relaxed.
I wonder at the pilot's response to the sink rate alert. Twist MCP knob to reduce VS. Way low, yet still on AP and not a very positive/aggressive reaction. Can't say for sure, but I suppose not aware how low they were, and thought a mere VS correction was sufficient.