The layoff includes Mary Kirby, who's been a core writer in the Dragon Age franchise since the first game. Saw takes that the layoffs are just eliminating multiplayer positions, but that's not true.
I've long suspected that Dreadwolf will make or break BioWare. Since it's following the same script as Andromeda and Anthem - endless delays, no public progress just lots of b-roll and concept art - I don't think development is going well. ME: Legacy might have bought BioWare some breathing room but I can't interpret this as anything other than death throes for the studio.