I never thought they were garbage but I have to admit that I really overestimated the skill value on troops. Also they went from tier 5 to 4 so once again, my bad. I did get hung up on the higher tier = always better, never had their equipment in mind.
+1 on the idea of minor faction units being recruit able. Perhaps lock it behind 30 or so in relation to them. You have to beat them a couple of times to prove yourself worthy.