They never did stop being bad. Late game-wise, they're as strong as ever. But it now requires time and gold to actually reach the late game, which is why the role itself has always been called a "carry". But with recent changes, it can often be better to go bot laners with a better early game. Its why bruisers and some mages are viable alternatives to ADCs right now.
Granted, some crit ADCs are just better at handling the early game, such as Quinn and Draven (both of whom T1 play a lot). As easily tilted as he is, he has the practice, skills, and maybe even patience, to make it work. But some people would just rather not make that effort.