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Yep both ideas sound 100% plausible. If your engagement point is high then I'd expect you're getting plenty of throw. I doubt the leaf springs are causing the drag even if flexed a bit to far, I'd be suspect of other noises if that were happening. Spline lube makes sense, but only if it were completely dry or catching on burs, even a super thin film will still provide lubrication.
I'd say test it with the near-redline rev with the clutch in to see if you detect any movement, and maybe slowly engage the clutch to see if it's slightly engaging earlier than you think. Also try shifting with partial clutch travel to rule out excessive movement.
It could be a screwy tolerance from manufacturing.
Side anecdote- A friend of mine bought a Spec clutch that had a pressure plate that was machined 1/4" too deep for his 2000-ish A4, leaving just barely enough clamping force for break-in. After a few days it slipped like crazy and Spec only offered to replace the clutch. My buddy had to pay for installation twice, thanks to terrible QA from the manufacturer.
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