(BBM) Just slightly contradicting yourself there but let's look at what you have.
You see, Geographic profiling is a method not an actual living, thinking person. So at that, the method has no idea WHAT crime took place, therefore GP would certainly be useful in this particular case primarily because there are the key features needed. 1). Last known area to be alive. 2). Location of the body when found. 3). Distance between the two. 4). Tentative time frame.
(When I say, "We", I'm meaning us out here in the general public and not the LE who have access to the more detailed information).
As such, GP and the KNOWN information is in fact, far and above a more solid, factual based view rather than, "I'd bet", "I'd guess" or "I think". At this point there is absolutely no evidence other than rumor and innuendo about drug involvement, drug dealers or a drug situation.
Young people often talk loose and big on social media in an attempt to make themselves look hip and cool about drinking and drug use. So the mention of these activities is absolutely in no way proof that the activity has taken place.
I'm aware of the principles of geographic profiling, was just applying my own thoughts using the method. (I do know that by definition a method is not a living thing.) Again, that theory is only a valid tool when we are talking about a serial killer, which does not appear to apply in this case. At least not in my opinion, though yours may be different and I respect that. Many elements of the crime point to an unplanned killing which is why I think it was a crime of passion by someone who was familiar with him. As I said, my thoughts are that this is drug-related. Hate to think that, but that is where most signs point right now in my opinion.