None of the candidates they have been eying are exactly middle of the road. As scary as it is, Biden was more middle road than most of their options. Newsome, Harris, Killery (joking.(...I hope)), etc... None of the nationally recognizable names are very middle road, and some would drive supporters away. Maybe if they could convince Kennedy to come back? Doubtful, but it would also bring massive backlash from the more progressive and extremist side of the party.
I don't think Trump is as hated as media makes him out to be. Vocal minority is definitely a thing, the crying and screaming few get the most attention and coverage.
One thing I do think they have right is that this will be one for the history books. Apparently this (~3 months) is the closest to election that a nominee has ever dropped out, next closest was LBJ at 8 months prior. Combine that with an almost successful assassination attempt on the opposing nominee in the same election cycle. It's going to be interesting for sure.