Carlos Rogers expects to be back at practice near the end of Redskins training camp in mid-August.

For now, the fourth-year cornerback continues to rehab a knee ligament injury suffered in Week 8 against the New England Patriots last season.

This offseason, Rogers worked with physical therapist Larry Hess to rebuild strength in the knee. He ran through some drills during mini-camp and OTAs, but otherwise sat out on-field work.

"I am not sure whether I will actually be practicing by the start of training camp, but more likely towards the end of it," Rogers said. "I feel good. I have been running, cutting and doing all of the drills for months now, so it's only a matter of time."

Training camp opens on July 20 and runs through mid-August.

Rogers is not expected to play in the first couple preseason games, including the Hall of Fame Game against Indianapolis on Aug. 3 in Canton, Ohio.

He has targeted the regular-season opener for his return to game action.

If he's not ready for Week 1, then he could be placed on the physically unable to perform list. Under that designation, Rogers could be re-activated midseason.

If he were placed on injured reserve, he would be lost for the season.

Rogers showed improvement last season after an up-and-down 2006 campaign. He started seven games and recorded 24 tackles (21 solo) and one interception that he returned 61 yards for a touchdown against Detroit.

With Rogers sidelined, the Redskins will get a close look at backup Leigh Torrence and rookie J.T. Tryon as nickel cornerbacks this preseason.

Second-year cornerbacks John Eubanks and Byron Westbrook could also get an extensive look as the defense rounds out its depth.

Rogers said he is "over" the disappointment of not being able to join his teammates on practice fields.

"I have been sitting out since last November," he said. "I want to practice and I'm pressuring the staff to let me, but I know I can't be out there. I'm used to it now."