The powers to be should look at some special ruling for players that have played "X" amount of games and are trying to overcome injuries over the pre-season.
Example 1
Richo, doesnt think he will be right so opts to retire for the better of the team.
Example 2
Croad, thought he would be fine but now doesnt look like he will make it. End result Hawks go into the season a player down. (so sad)
Anyone that has given so much to the game puts bums on seats and that is what sponsers want, return for their money as well as giving vetrans every chance to see what they can do over summer.
I would work the basics like this.
Any player that has a minimum of 150 or 200 games may be given to and including the first round of the preseaon competition to try and get their bodies right. In the event they dont make it they must retire on the following day after said game. That would result in any player on the rookie list can then be listed on the senior list, for the lenght of the season.
A little rough but you get the idea, Maybe someone can type it up better and we can start a petition to email around other clubs fan sites. Given enough people voting for it the AFL would have to at least look into it.