RUNNERS would only be able to deliver messages to players after goals under a recommendation that could be put forward by the AFL's Competition Committee this week.

The committee, featuring club presidents, chief executives, coaches, football managers, players and League representatives will meet in Melbourne on Thursday.

The future of runners has been the subject of much discussion as the AFL cracks down on their presence on the ground during games.

AFL HAS 'AMMO' North coach ready for runner crackdown

It is expected the AFL Commission will be given a proposal by the Competition Committee that would see runners only allowed on the ground after goals and that they would have to return to the interchange bench before the players reset for a centre bounce.

Clubs have rallied against the removal of runners altogether, citing them as important game-day conduits between the players and coaches' box.

There have been different suggestions floated to reduce the runners' presence on the ground, including a limit of five messages per quarter.

The Competition Committee will also discuss potential rule changes for next season, such as the increased goalsquare size and the possibility of 6-6-6 starting positions across the ground.

It trialled the rules with AFL clubs and during state-league games late in the year.

Also on the agenda of the meeting are proposals for player movement changes for 2019, with the AFL keen to introduce a mid-season trade period or draft, as well as the competition structure.