Very loud knocking

My husband got stuck in the recent snow
with my 2002 Trooper. It is now making a
very loud hard continuous knocking sound.
I drove it myself to feel any difference. I
noted a slight hesitation while in drive and
while actually driving. No jerking or lack of
momentum. Oil is fine. No black or
extremely white smoke. I also checked the
oil and there is nothing in there but oil. My
question is am I S.O.L or is this possibly
something that could be repaired under the
down payment of another vehicle. Thank
you for your help