Don't think I've ever ran a NE load, and I have done a few L1 loads so time will tell, I was concerned when NE opened an office in Cleveland, but nothing changed on my end, now with L1 again time will tell.
If I was John I would jump at that deal, after all John works hard to make Load 1 The Premier Carrier, and would have them on my short list if I ever buy a new long tall whatever.