Hey Koop,
Just a note:
I have my 98 GTS and also had a mechanical popping noise when the clutch was released (felt like it was under my gas pedal or coming more from the center of the car). It would do this when I release the clutch under light to moderate load in the lower gear range (4th and 5th) and also did it when in those gears and simply let off the gas then back on slightly.
Took it to the dealer and they said it was normal and I then told them it wasn't and made them go for a ride in my car. They called Dodge direct and within days Dodge sent me a new transmission. I have no clicks or knocks or popping noise anymore. They did jack my car up and showed me the play in the driveshaft (1/8") and told me that was normal.
Hope that helped,
Gerald