clutch/transmission rattling sound
 

I have a 2000 trans am (stock clutch and transmission) and whenever i accelerate from a stop in either 1st gear or in reverse, theres a loud rattling sound. Also, when i'm in neutral and press the clutch down, i hear the rattling sound again.
A few weeks before i noticed these rattling sounds, there was a few days where it was extremely difficult for me to shift in any gear. I'm not sure if this had anything to do with the rattling sounds now. Any thoughts on whats wrong? Thanks