The legacies have been shown via the data set to be more highly educated, wealthier and with more advantages than any other accepted group. So, the likelihood of looking for a gentleman’s A is probably a notion rooted in JFK’s C’s that still has traction in some quarters. That world doesn’t exist anymore. Weak legacies might have been a factor up until the 1980’s/90s. Not anymore. The competition is fierce and there are many legacies who have the total package. And still don’t get an admit.
The Dean’s admits, yes, I’d agree there is some real lightweight material on the Z list/Dean’s list.
Athletes vary. Many are outstanding student athletes whose work in the classroom and in the field are superb. And they can balance things very well. So with the exception of a few, most are going to be fine academically. Will they chose classes that are easier just to keep balance? Maybe. But again, most Div I athletes have had years of learning to balance school and sports. I wouldn’t put them in the Z list category, at all.