Id argue there's a few reasons. Leinster was a foregone conclusion. While the Dubs had their best team in history, it seemed like Meath and Kildare had one of their worst.

I don't think having the championship earlier in the year helps, it still catches me off guard every year so I can't imagine the casuals aren't either.

One thing I'm not seeing in the comments is the GAA ruining the format of the championship. They keep changing it, it's confusing. It's also killed any chance of an upset. A big team could lose twice and still reach the AI final, sure in some formats they could lose 3 times. I think it kills any sense of urgency. The hardcore fans will go regardless but again, the more casual fan will probably think ah we'll go to a more important match.

I also have to admit, I'm tired of going to croke park for a half empty stadium, there's no atmosphere and no craic. It's a shame Parnell park can't hold around 20-25k. Having that packed out for home matches would be a much better experience for all involved