Players can’t transfer without penalty if a coach leaves. They can only do that in the case of NCAA probation. Furthermore if they transfer within the SEC they have to sit two years unless Arkansas waives the rule.
Houston Nutt left and there was no NCAA violation. Mitch Mustain and Williams went to SC and did not have to sit out a year. Same thing with some Texas Tech players after Mike Leach was fired. It may be only those players with 3 years eligibility remaining who can transfer.