I would agree that the ED process discriminates against kids who need to compare offers - ED works well instead for the very poor who will get a full-ride anywhere, and for families wealthy enough to be full-pay everywhere.
But if this school really is your child’s top choice by far, then I’d suggest calling the FA office, perhaps for a pre-read, or at least for clarification on the ranges for the NPC. For many of the need-blind application, full-needs met schools, the school can afford to be generous, and simply doesn’t want financial need to be the reason an accepted student declines to attend. If you explain your student is considering applying ED, but the NPC range is confusing, they will be able to discuss some of the variables in the full FA application that might not be in the short NPC questionnaire.
Don’t hesitate to ask the FA department - they are there to help students and families. Also, if you and others have questions, chances are that other families might as well. They are always trying to improve their process to make things easier on families.