Players want the AFL to examine whether the rules on fighting Match Review Panel findings create too much of a disincentive to challenge.
After calling for a post-season review of the MRP and Tribunal, the AFLPA outlined on Thursday the specific issues causing concern among players since six players were suspended for a total of 10 matches in the past two weeks.
It includes the rules relating to challenges, the 'poor record' loading added to MRP penalties, whether the grading system is too rigid and a sense that too much emphasis is placed on the outcome of an incident when MRP penalties are applied
AFLPA player relations manager Brett Murphy acknowledged the MRP has one of the toughest jobs in football, but said it was essential the system was reviewed each season to help it arrive at fair and just outcomes.
"One of the key issues for discussion relates to Tribunal challenges, and whether the current rules go too far in discouraging players and clubs from challenging MRP findings," Murphy said.
"We regularly hear from players and clubs who want to challenge a finding, but feel compelled to accept it given the risk of an added week."
Western Bulldogs forward Jack Redpath copped an extra match penalty after failing at the Tribunal following an MRP charge from round 21.
Redpath's strike on Phil Davis would have normally resulted in a one-match ban, but his existing poor record meant he could either accept two games or risk a third at the Tribunal.
It means he misses the final two matches of the Bulldogs' season and their first final – if they finish in the top eight.
"Players have also questioned whether the bad record loading is appropriate, whether the MRP grading system is too rigid in its operation, and whether the MRP (or the MRP grading system) places too much weight on the outcome of an incident, rather than on the act itself," Murphy said.
Recent MRP and Tribunal decisions have caused controversy but Murphy emphasised the players were not just reacting to isolated incidents.
He said they wanted to discuss the system rather than specific decisions with the AFL.
Players have missed a total of 63 matches so far this season, the most since 75 matches were missed in 2014.
