You're the one who said they were going to retire. And Brees retired with years and money remaining on this contract. Guys retire when they are ready and guys who are elite athletes normally don't just sit around doing nothing to keep getting a pay check.
As far as Cam, he's still a good overall player and a very good run defender. And, what he brings in the locker room, is invaluable especially when a guy like DA is the HC.
But, again, what free agents could the Saints not sign because they didn't have the money?