I think that, just watch the cap for dry rotI had the same thought as you, why not just remove the pipe? So I did. I'm using a vinyl end cap and hose clamp to plug the hole on the inlet tube and haven't had any issues at all. Truck runs great, no check engine lights. Links to what I'm using are below:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0747RVMRZ/?tag=fordraptorforum-20
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017L17Z1C/?tag=fordraptorforum-20
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