The NRL is exploring the prospect of removing clubs from the process of sanctioning misbehaving players and leaving it solely in the hands of a beefed-up integrity unit.

The development comes as officials contemplate punishing players even if they are cleared of criminal charges if they have contravened the code of conduct or brought the game into disrepute.

Charged: St George Illawarra player Jack de Belin leaving Wollongong Courthouse on Tuesday. Credit:Adam McLean

The game has been rocked by a spate of off-field incidents, with the issue at the top of the agenda when all 16 club chief executives meet ahead of the All Stars match in Melbourne.

Debate rages over whether St George Illawarra forward Jack de Belin should be allowed to continue his playing career after he pleaded not guilty to sexual assault allegations. The NRL’s policy is to afford players the presumption of innocence while the court case unfolds, allowing them to continue to play unless there is incontrovertible evidence - such as CCTV footage - that justifies immediate action. That means de Belin will be free to continue to represent the Dragons, and possibly even NSW, until the matter is finalised in court, which could take several years.