I'm sure they'll get that criticism, though at the same time I don't think it's entirely fair. Any of the Elite legitimately do deserve to be top stars and champions. And I'll say the same for Triple H... he was and should have been a top star regardless of whether or not he banged Steph. But I suppose that comes with the territory when you're a booker who is also a full time performer. It's not entirely fair... but it is what it is.
But I do agree the Elite are intentionally keeping themselves out of the title picture, and it's smart to do it. They're the stars with or without the belts.