There is no doubt that Azhwars are superior to that sages. Many have vouched for this. The core difference between them – Sages derive their knowledge through extreme penance while Perumal had bestowed upon Azhwars the supreme knowledge which is why Azhwars are greater than all the saints.
There are Sri Vaishnavas among sages like Atiri, Bhrugu Maharishi, etc. Saint Agastiya is also a Sri Vaishnava, as he had social responsibility they do works for the sake of the other devotees of the demi-god. After writing Siva Puranam and other puranas Sage Vyasa had declared ‘Veda Sastram Param Nasti Na Deivan Kesavath Param’. Hence the saints have done all such works out their social responsibility and not based on their personal beliefs.
Many saints have been Sri Vaishnavas. There are a few saints who are mentioned in the Vedas who belong to other religions. So, we have to take the Sri Vaishnava part alone from the puranas.
We need to revere our Azhwars who are more supreme than the Saints.