i 100% agree. The game IS getting more and more grindy with every patch.
2.0 seemed really well done. Also the relic quest had a proper path, with primals etc. There was far less grind involved.
After that content got thinner with every patch but the grind got bigger.

I don't mind a grind that is long IF the reward lasts. Since the games progression is as Vertical as can be and things get outdated so fast, the grind is NO WHERE NEAR APPROPRIATE.
Especially not having in mind "the game has to appeal to casuals, we have beginners and new players in mind when designing content etc..."

FFXI was a huge grind, but things lasted for years. Compared to FFXV it is far less of a grind then. And i played/playing both a lot.