In the Redskins' first preseason game, the Redskins were without four cornerbacks. In this Friday's preseason home opener against Cincinnati, they could be without three safeties.

Strong safety Matt Bowen is unlikely to play due to a sprained knee suffered during Wednesday's practice. The injury is not considered serious and it's possible that Bowen could suit up to play on Friday night. But since it's a preseason game, team officials are expected to hold Bowen out.

Also, safeties Ryan Clark and Tony Dixon have been ruled out for Friday's game. Clark has a sprained knee and Dixon has a hamstring injury.

Meantime, rookie cornerback Carlos Rogers could see his first action of the preseason. Rogers returned to practice last Monday after missing several weeks with an ankle injury. If he plays, it would mark the rookie's first NFL game.

The Redskins drafted Rogers in the first round (9th overall) of last April's NFL Draft.

Cornerbacks Walt Harris (calf injury) and Artrell Hawkins (hamstring) have been listed as out for Friday's game. The defense is expected to have cornerbacks Shawn Springs and Garnell Wilds back on the field, however.

To help the ailing secondary, the Redskins signed rookie defensive back Charles Byrd on Thursday. Byrd, 5-11 and 198 pounds, played college ball at Morehead State University and finished his collegiate career with 184 tackles (123 solo), 57 pass deflections and 12 interceptions.

Linebacker LaVar Arrington and defensive tackle Brandon Noble are not expected to play in Friday's game. Despite returning to practice last Monday, Arrington and Noble are nursing knee injuries. They are on target to be ready for action either later in the preseason or by the start of the regular season.

Also listed as out for Friday's game: wide receiver Taylor Jacobs (toe injury) and offensive lineman Mark Wilson (back).