The game's most senior figures have thrown their support behind the NRL's hard-line stance against violence on women.

Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and James Maloney are the first players to speak publicly on the horror off-season that has seen five players charged with sexual or indecent assault.

Former Eels star Jarryd Hayne has pleaded not guilty to an aggravated sexual assault charge on a woman in NSW. Manly centre Dylan Walker is facing domestic assault charges with police pursuing his case.

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Most recently, Dragons back-rower Jack de Belin has been charged with aggravated sexual assault in company after allegations were made by a 19-year-old.

Melbourne captain Smith called for players to ''protect the game'' by upholding higher standards.

“It’s important we have a voice on behalf of players who do the right thing and speak up about the standards we expect of each other,” Smith told The Sunday Telegraph.

“These incidents also have a negative impact on the perception of all players and our ability to protect and advance the game in partnership with the NRL.

“We do not condone any form of violence again women and can no longer accept poor behaviour in general.''

Maloney, an RLPA board member, maintained that all players are guilty until proven innocence, but severe punishments must be laid out if they are found guilty.

“I think as players we understand what’s expected of us and that we’ll be held accountable for our actions if we stuff up,'' he said.

“If players are found guilty of serious misconduct in relation to acts of violence towards women then appropriate action should be taken by the game.”

Cronk echoed the thoughts of Smith and Maloney, adding that players must remember their roles as role models in society.

“Being a rugby league player is no excuse when it comes to how you treat people, particularly women,’’ Cronk said.

“We understand that as professional athletes, we can have a meaningful impact on society through our actions, so it’s important that we lead by example.”