2002 Hyundai Accent Chrunching noise

I have an 2002 Accent (automatic) . I have a grinding or rubbing noise coming from the front end that I originally thought was something in the brakes ( rock, metal, etc) . After removing the tires to inspect them, the noise persisted. It's consistent while driving in all gears, including R and N and doesn't get any worse when turning. What could this be? Please help me out. Thanks