Bret Bielema has made a statement about the departures of offensive coordinator Jim Chaney and defensive tackle Darius Philon.
On sophomore defensive tackle Darius Philon leaving for the NFL Draft:
“We are disappointed that Darius will no longer be part of our football program but very excited about the opportunities ahead of him. It was a privilege to get to know Darius and his family over the past two years. He is a very young and blessed athlete and we wish him nothing but success in life’s path he has chosen.”
On former offensive coordinator Jim Chaney going to Pitt:
“Jim Chaney has resigned from our staff and I want to thank Jim for his two seasons at the University of Arkansas. We wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.”
“We have started the process to take a bigger and brighter step forward in our program. As a head coach, I have witnessed many positive events that happen with modified transition. We will find the correct fit for our returning players and coaches eager for the 2015 campaign. Once again, I am not surprised by coaches pursuing the chance to be a part of something here at Arkansas that has never been done.”