I know this is a bit late in the game, and I have seen this posted in other ethernet expansion card topics, but have you looked into IX Industrial connectors? It’s a new connector standard that is being marketed as an RJ45 alternative for ethernet connections. The connectors are similar in size/slightly smaller than USB type-A connectors. They also already make pre-made ethernet cables with an IX connector on one end and a RJ45 connector on the other end. I don’t think this would be a full replacement for the RJ45 module you are currently designing as those cables are everywhere, but if you want an ethernet module that is standard size, this may be the way to go for version 2.
Below is a link to a Digi-Key search for the IX Industrial connectors - I’m not affiliated with them in any way, but my company uses Digi-Key to purchase a lot of our components and electronic parts, so I trust them and know they are a good source for connectors and other components.
https://www.digikey.com/en/products/filter/pluggable-connectors/443?s=N4IgjCBcoBwAwWiAxlALgJwK4FMA0IA9lANogDMAnAEyUBscIAugQA5pQgDKmAlgHYBzEAF8RBaqRABJAB4ACAQBMsAZz4BDADbMRQA
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