ATLANTA — Georgia investigators have withdrawn their request for a DNA sample from Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who is accused of sexually assaulting a 20-year-old college student at a nightclub, an attorney for the player said yesterday.

Ed Garland told The Associated Press that officials withdrew the request a week ago, but declined comment on why.

"It is clear that they are doing a careful, thorough and extensive investigation," said Garland, who hoped the investigation would wrap up within a month.

Police are looking into the claim that Roethlisberger sexually assaulted the woman early March 5 at the club in Milledgeville. Roethlisberger has not been charged, and Garland has disputed the claim and has hired his own team to investigate.

JETS

EX-WARRIOR HUNTER SIGNS $1.2M TENDER

New York Jets backup offensive lineman Wayne Hunter has signed his one-year tender, keeping the restricted free agent in New York after he helped pave the way for the NFL's top-ranked rushing game last season.

Hunter, entering his fourth season with the Jets, signed the deal worth about $1.2 million yesterday. He has filled in at tackle and as a blocking tight end on goal-line and short-yardage situations.

Hunter was a third-round pick of Seattle out of the University of Hawai'i in 2003 and also has played with Jacksonville in his seven-year career.

Running back Leon Washington, quarterback Kellen Clemens and cornerback Drew Coleman remain unsigned restricted free agents.

ELSEWHERE

Cardinals: Arizona signed restricted free agent tight end Ben Patrick to his one-year qualifying offer.The team also re-signed safety Hamza Abdullah to a one-year contract and fullback Nehemiah Broughton to his exclusive rights contract.

49ers: San Francisco re-signed 11-year veteran offensive lineman Barry Sims to a one-year contract yesterday. Financial terms were not released.

Redskins: Washington tackle Stephen Heyer was awarded $265,000 from the NFL's performance-based pay pool, which compensates players whose playing time was disproportionate to their salaries. Heyer started every game last season while making about $467,000.