ok: it started out that my 99 cherokee wouldn't start with the key, now using a screwdriver across the starter to get going
installed a new starter to no avail
now noticed that the steering wheel doesn't lock when key is off

problem in steering column?

 

I would say you either have a neutral safety switch problem or an ignition switch problem.

 

Have you tried starting it in neutral? Thats the only way mine would start before i had to replace the NSS.
Otherwise Id check into an ignition switch problem like mentioned above

 

but don't these problems give some sort of indication ahead of time? there was nothing, everything worked fine then all the sudden won't work at all