The front drive rotating parts are many, and heavy. You might be able to lift one front tire with a jack, and turn it with difficulty by hand. I've never thought to try that, but the transfer case won't stop that with the engine off. If the TC is locked in 4WD for any reason, then the front driveshaft will not turn unless the clutch is bad. It should only engage in the 4WD switch positions, and in A4WD if there is speed difference between front and back tires.
I liked mine of my 99 Explorer, except when launching with a rear tire on dirt or grass, leaves, or gravel. Then it always spun that one tire briefly until the A4WD engaged the front wheels. I moved some dirt dozens of times a day delivering mail with that truck. My AWD V8 models virtually never hurt the ground taking off briskly, but with rain and slick grass, anything will spin a little.