The Facts: Ben Roethlisberger called for the Steelers to acquire a tall WR, specifically to help inside the 20 and for a bailout target when he's under pressure. He said he had that with 6-5 Plaxico Burress, but not since after the 2004 season. "I'm always going to ask for a tall receiver," Roethlisberger said. "That's just me. Our receivers are unbelievable, but our tallest guy might be Hines. ..." That stung Ward, the most decorated Steelers receiver in history. "I don't hear Tom Brady or Peyton Manning asking for that," Ward said yesterday.

Diehards Line:Ward, recovering from post-season surgery on his right knee, went on to say: "I don't buy into height. Look at my red-zone touchdowns -- I have as many as anyone in the league." Since 2002, Ward is tied for second in the league in percentage of touchdowns in the red zone, described by the NFL as inside the 20. Randy Moss (at 6-4) is first with 36 percent and Ward, Marvin Harrison and Terrell Owens are tied with 33 percent. Added Ward, "I don't buy into the hype you have to be tall. You throw the ball up and give somebody a chance to make a play, I'll make as many catches as anyone."