My assumption is that nothing is stopping the pedal from moving back (1/3 to 1/2" of rearword free travel) so the mc should be in it's full off position.
On a manual brake car the length of the push rod basically sets the height of the pedal, UNLESS there is a up travel stop, friction, or an obstruction.
Maybe the brake light switch bracket needs to be adjusted and that is keeping the pedal from returning to full off position.