FWIW, this shriveled, dried-up husk is what was left of one of my LCA bushings. I replaced them a couple of weeks ago with a set from 1A Auto. My truck is an ‘07 with 236K miles. The others looked similar. It’s likely yours are the same or close. You can look at one and see, just get a flashlight and slide under the front end.
Two grand for LCAs & tie rods? The 1A Auto set is ~$200 for both LCAs and it took a few hours of my time. You can likely find a better deal at a local shop. Consider getting into a local 4R FB group and ask around. You’ll soon know who they trust.