Rolle and Clayton sprained their right ankles in a 13-12 loss to the New York Giants on Sunday and are expected to sit out the remainder of the preseason.

Rolle is optimistic that this ankle injury won't linger like the one he suffered in the second game last year against the Oakland Raiders. That setback affected his speed, and eventually his confidence.

"Same ankle, but not as bad," said Rolle, who's off crutches. "I think it's just sprained badly. I'll be out there in the opener definitely."

Rolle and Clayton are among several Ravens battling injuries heading into their preseason game at Washington on Saturday night. Defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (swollen knee) and rookie outside linebacker Antwan Barnes (right high-ankle sprain) are expected to be gametime decisions.

Tight end Daniel Wilcox (left ankle sprain) and running back P.J. Daniels (hamstring) returned to practice this morning, but won't play against the Redskins.

The Ravens will start second-year cornerback David Pittman in Rolle's place against the Redskins, and Demetrius Williams in place of Clayton.

Pittman, a third-round pick in 2006, was criticized last season for his work ethic and toughness.

"Basically, I want to show the team and the coaching staff that I'm able to be trusted," Pittman said.

"It's time to put him up with the big boys and see what he can do," Ravens coach Brian Billick said.