You might be on to something, better 17 years as a side kick with supporting character development, than being stuck in limbo. He most consistent run to date was Griveaux's New Warriors. She was barely used Woods' X-men compounded by the problem that it was a book between big events. Everything else was guest stars and a Wolverine and Jubilee mini, well anything good.
That Shojo book, and Austen are best forgotten.