I suspect Rick isn’t completely broken – I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s plotting a surprise coup of his own doing, but for whatever reason he needs his people to truly believe he’s broken in order to keep them safe for the time being.
He’s given Negan the eye, and thought about taking him out with Lucille, but he’s holding back – waiting for the right time.
Agree with fact they could’ve already won this war with sniper shot/RPG, but yes, it’s a fictional show so it needs the stories dragged out somewhat.
I do yearn for more realism though. I’d love a series based on a scenario like Viggo Mortensen in The Road.
Gritty downbeat post apocalyptic drama with Z’s. Perfick.