Flywheel wont turn forward only back

[Fat fish stick]

Took my 21ft out today with a 2001 200hp johnson on the back. Got out about 5 miles and she sounding as if I picked something up in the prop but in the matter of 10 seconds the engine cut off. Check the prop it was clean so i Went to start it and nothing. Thought my battery died. Got towed in abd went and got 2 new batteries tried starting her and small nlist like she ain't getting juice and then nothing. Took the cover off the outboard and tried to turn the wheel by hand but only went about a forth of a crank and thwn would act as if it locked... does spin backwards and then forward but only til it hits that lock spot. Read it could be a bad battery connection which I'm hoping but I really have no clue. This ever happen to anyone? Any feed back is much appreciated.

Thanks again
Sam