No track audio on Adobe Audition

I have tried all 54 solutions given to ppl who had similar issues. Audio hardware, mapping, disc cache, restart, space bar, multi track, not waveform, etc. I am on Windows 11, I have checked for updates. The restarting with shift key worked once. but I'm here again. 

I am relatively new to Audition. I pay for Adobe, no plug-ins are being used. I have cut up my track repeatedly to line up sections. Could this have something to do with the audio not playing? 

When I move the playhead I can hear the track distorted. I wasn't t sure how to remedy the soundcard when it was suggested.  Could this be the problem?

Thank you so much for all the assistance 💪