Snapp rer Drive Problem

Was mowing and mower quit moving forward. Put it neutral and could not move it. When I stood it on end the rear tires would turn in opposite direction. I did get a smoke from rubber burning when I started it and put it in gear. Through research I found that this is a broken drive chain. Tore it apart and no broken chain. I did find that the drive wheel gear had seized needle bearing and would not turn. Could this be the problem. I did replace the bearings and everything spins good. I do have the rear end up on jack stands in neutral and wheels still turn opposite. When I put the rear tires on and set it down should I be able to roll it. I am waiting on 1 more part and can't try it

Thanks,
Rodney

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