Not sure "following the rule" can count as rebelling...
But given the number of rule breakers I see in GSMNP, I appreciate you following them.
The good news is that, for now, the park is allowing everyone (with a permit) to set up tents near the shelters {like the "over-follow" of thru hikers is normally allowed} as a part of "Social Distancing".
The bad news for legitimate AT thur hikers, the park isn't issuing thru hiker permits. You've got to get shelter reservations like "regular" backpackers do.