Offensive lineman Mike Pucillo played "very well" at left guard in Saturday's preseason game against Pittsburgh, but Todd Wade will resume work at the position as soon as he is cleared to practice.

Following Saturday's game, Joe Gibbs indicated that Pucillo had played himself into the mix for the starting job at left guard.

"We'll continue to work through that," Gibbs said. "Todd will go right back in there at guard and we'll continue to see where it all plays out."

Wade did not play in the game due to a shoulder injury. He is expected to be back at practice this week as the Redskins get ready for their third preseason game, on Aug. 25 against the Baltimore Ravens.

Regarding Pucillo's play, Gibbs said: "With Todd being hurt, we gave him a chance to start and I thought he did very well. He continues to be a valuable guy because he can do so many things for you. He can play tight end for you in our [short yardage] package. He can back up Casey at center and now he has a chance to start at guard.

"So we have to continue to play that out. There's an example of someone seizing an opportunity and he gave it everything he's got. He has been impressive."

-- ESPY HAS SURGERY

Second-year wide receiver Mike Espy underwent patella tendon surgery on Sunday morning, and his 2007 season has come to an end.

His rehab is expected to be about 4-6 months.

Espy suffered a ruptured patella tendon in the second half of Saturday's preseason game against Pittsburgh. He was untouched as he ran downfield on a pass pattern, but his knee suddenly buckled underneath him.

He had to be carted into the locker room for further evaluation and he did not return to the game.

Espy had been hoping to earn a roster spot this preseason, after working on the practice squad most of last season.

It's expected that Espy will be placed on injured reserve. When that happens, the Redskins would be able to sign another player to fill Espy's roster spot.