Green Bay Packers release tackle Chad Clifton

GREEN BAY -- The Green Bay Packersreleased tackle Chad Clifton Monday.

Clifton was selected by the Packers in the second round (No. 44 overall) of the 2000 NFL Draft. He went on to appear in 165 games with 160 starts at left tackle during his 12-year career in Green Bay. He ranks No. 2 in franchise history for the most games played by an offensive tackle behind only Forrest Gregg (187 games).

Clifton was selected to the Pro Bowl twice during his career (2007 and 2010) and blocked for five of the top eight single-season rushers in franchise history (Ahman Green, 2001-03; Ryan Grant, 2008-09).

In a statement released by the Packers Monday afternoon, General Manager Ted Thompson said, "Chad is a great Packer and has been an integral part of our success over the past 12 seasons. He was a member of some of the most prolific offenses in team history, but more importantly, he is a great person and teammate. We thank Chad for all that he has given the Packers on the field and in the community and wish him and his family well.”

Clifton played on eight playoff teams in Green Bay, highlighted by the 2010 squad that won Super Bowl XLV.

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