It appears that the tables have turned and that the Steelers just might be willing to dangle, if not trade, Ben Roethlisberger.

It's entirely possible nothing happens today — one informed person told me this morning it's "50-50 at best" — and that a year from now we are talking about how Ben has turned his life around since he was almost traded.

But something could happen. The Steelers could just wipe the slate clean.

The Raiders appear to be the team most people think would make a move for him.

I think the issue is that Oakland doesn't appear willing to deal the No. 8 pick straight up for him, and they lack a No. 1 next year (traded to New England for Richard Seymour). With the pressure to prevent next year's pick from being in the top five, the Raiders need to win. Now.

A move for Roethlisberger could help that — for 10 or 12 games, anyway.

Maybe the Steelers would throw in No. 18? Have they done enough work on top-10 picks in the draft to feel good about such a deal?

Hang on, folks. The next few hours should be compelling. Either way.