A-727 small metal debris in pan - rebuild?

I agree it doesn't look too bad, but there are some concerning bits in there.
Normal would be little flakes of metal like is there and some blackish paste.
Blackish paste is normal wear of the fluid pressures wearing on aluminum fins inside the converter, and the metal flakes is normal bushing wear.

All that said, black chunks are not normal.
Since it's already out it would be wise to at least pull the pump and clutch packs for inspection.
Chances are you will get away with it for awhile if you don't do it if I'm seeing what I think I am seeing.
If you plan to keep the car and be able to trust it, then now's the time to make sure it's ok.
With a messed up TP control and early shifting I suspect you will find the direct clutch got toasty. (hench the black chunks)

(retired ASE and ATRA certified here)

Oh, and don't forget to flush your cooler lines both directions, as that kind of stuff can and does get hung up in the coolers

TrailBeast,
Thank you for taking a look at the filter and pan. I note what you suspect about the direct clutch.
The trans is still in the car, just the pan off and VB now out.
The early shifting was insensitive to adjusting the TP control cable on road tests, I'm hoping that I find TP out of adjustment at the valve body. Do you see how else the early shifting happens?