Was the Saints' Front Office (e.g., Loomis) Fleeced on the Sean Payton Trade?

Sure, but it doesn't matter what we think he's worth if no one is willing to pay it. And no one was gonna pay what was paid for Gruden. If you think so, I've got some beachfront property in DC to sell you.
The Saints were never going to get what he was worth, but that doesn't mean they didn't get the best they could for him. It is what it is.