"As expected, quarterback Donovan McNabb (ankle) has been ruled out of Thursday's preseason finale against the Arizona Cardinals, and the Redskins' starters are not expected to play in the game at University of Phoenix Stadium.

"I think it's a little bit too sore," Coach Mike Shanahan said after practice Sunday in ruling out McNabb.

Injured in the second preseason game against Baltimore, McNabb sat out Friday's 16-11 victory over the New York Jets. At the time of McNabb's injury, it was believed the Redskins would exercise caution with the 12-year veteran in hopes of having him available for the regular-season opener Sept. 12 against the NFC East rival Dallas Cowboys at FedEx Field.

As for McNabb's status for the opener, "I really don't know for sure," Shanahan said. "That's why it's day-to-day."

Portis suffered an ankle injury early in the victory over the Jets. Shanahan indicated he would be surprised if Portis, expected to open the season as the team's No. 1 running back, sat out practice all week."