Mark Chmura Released

Monday, June 5th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - Mark Chmura was released by the Green Bay Packers Monday as he awaits trial on charges he sexually assaulted his 17 year old babysitter. General manager Ron Wolf said the Packers "greatly appreciate" Chmura's contributions the last eight seasons. The move by the team was expected. By releasing the star tight end after June 1, the Packers save $900,000 in salary cap room. Chmura's friend and lawyer, John Drana, had said Wolf did not mention the criminal case when he told him of Chmura's release. Chmura announced the Packers' decision Saturday at a news conference from the driveway of lawyer Gerald Boyle's Milwaukee office. He helped lead the Packers to consecutive Super Bowl appearances in 1997 and 1998 and was named to the Pro Bowl three times. He missed all but two games last season after a neck injury. The 31 year old tight end, one of the NFL's best, had hoped to play this season. He participated in the Packers' first mini camp in March before his arrest.