for others engaging the AP with such an extreme out of trim situation by releasing the controls, that makes me question the qualifications of the commentator.
I agree. But there is no other way to engage the A/P on the NG. Ie it won't engage if there is any control input. That's why I think it's a dumb idea. If you're flying manually and get out of shape the A/P is not the answer. ( I imagine you already know that and we are in furious agreement)