Have we overestimated the quality of our staying chasers?

Still in the shadow of the Kauto Star, Denman and Long Run era, what reason have we to believe the current bunch can match those stars who raised the profile of staying chasers to dizzying heights in the last decade?
Such a shame 2015 Gold Cup winner Coneygree has missed most of the season, as a greater understanding of his ability would give us clear indication of where the current crop stands in terms of true quality.