They sent out some recruitment emails in early July, they try to promote some of the major international firms and discuss how because its a JD can be portable. It was interesting to read about. It did seem like their application was closing soon.
It doesn't hurt to send some "feeler emails" to prospective profs. If they say that they are not able to write you a _strong_ recommendation, then go with the pro letters.
It's SUPER common! It happens to me relatively often and a good friend of mine consistently. Something about the cogs in your brain greased and ready. Before you next PT, do 15-20 LR questions at random and then start your PT. See if that bumps it!
Idk why but just the idea of a poker personal statement made me excited. It's like "what's this guy gotta say?" Kinda feeling. Of course, I'm some random Internet dude and not an admissions officer. Take it for what little it's worth haha