yz250F

Hi i have a yz250f and when i kick start it, it is very hard it would not kick at all But i got it to loosen up and it has been loose for about a little less then a month but it wont starts and it is still hard but not stuck it gets harder but i dont no what it is I took the kick start off and the case and the kick start gear on the inside is loose and it looks like the gear is rubbing the case could this be what is making it so hard everything in the motor is moving fine piston is moving fine but the kick start is very hard any thoughts on it. Very apricated Thank You.