Adjusting trigger release through the screw hole in the trigger guard did not fix. Spring definitely is "active". Just checked so my memory is fresh: the barrel has to be guided back as the spring is definitely compressed and pushing back when in the cock position. I assume the compression/cocking compresses the spring to a position where a latch can take place, the latch being of course connected to the trigger. Perhaps some clean with spray cleaner in that area will allow the catch to catch. I also have a nitro Crossman, does it also need a compression tool to disassemble? If I can buy a spring compressor (I have seen some home made devices too, most likely on youtube) and it is applicable to both pellet rifles it could be worth my time, and could encourage me to do a full tune-up. This is a pricey little bugger but looks adjustable enough for about any springer and well-built enough to last a lifetime. Home-made ones work ok though and not terribly hard to build. Good luck with it.
If the pin in the cocking linkage breaks the gun will still feel like it's cocking but it won't go back far enough to latch. It uses a circlip in the center, the groove making a weak spot.
I would say that there's a good chance your main spring is broken. Those are fairly easy rifles to work on if you have a spring compressor. If you don't want to open it up yourself, Mike Melick knows these backward and forward. I think he charges $100 for a full tune. I would suggest sending along a spring from air rifle headquarters or Vortek for greater spring life. Good luck with it.