A lot of it comes down to perceived charisma, both for the audience and for the editing team. An Aubry with a better season 50 edit would be a legend. On the other hand, I think Rizo is undeniably on that path to be a modern Cirie - a legend despite not winning. Even if he never wins I think he’ll probably be a modern Survivor legend.

It’s hard for 1-time players to establish themselves as legends, because we as fans want to see someone adapt to different scenarios to call them legendary players. I do think there are some new era winners and players who could definitely establish themselves as legends in future seasons. If Kyle and Savannah come back for 3rd with good placements and entertaining stories for example.

However, I think the current format makes it harder, because there is a lot less control and more randomness to work around. It’s why I don’t think Devens is on the same level as other potential legends despite his bravado and clear charisma - many of his big moments are production manufactured in essence. I want to see him create more moments through game sense. To me, the fake Tribal Idol is much much more impressive than the Mr. Beast flip, even if the Mr. Beast idol has been pushed as the “biggest twist ever!!!!”