Hello Josh,
I've got some excellent news! I figured out what the problem was, turns out the UART chip was the issue. I ordered a replacement because I wanted to test the socketed stuff before I started desoldering, and when I replaced it the board started right up! So your initial suspect was the culprit. Thanks a ton for the help, this has been an absolute blast (not a joke, I have been really enjoying working on this).
Thanks for your help,
Morgan
