HAWTHORN will use recent changes to AFL rules to give Travis Tuck the best opportunity to prolong his career.
The Hawks confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that they had met with Tuck's management following his 12-week suspension by the tribunal for breaching the League's illicit drug policy.
Police found Tuck unconscious in his car in Melbourne suburb Berwick on Friday night and transferred him to hospital.
The incident was Tuck's third strike under the policy and though he will miss the first three months of the 2011 AFL season, he will be allowed to return to the VFL after eight weeks.
However, Hawthorn will keep Tuck on its training list and financially support him while it considers the 2005 father-son draftee for the final rookie spot it must fill by March.
If he is not selected in the NAB AFL Rookie Draft, the Hawks could apply for Tuck to be placed on their inactive list and play him with VFL club Box Hill.
They would then have the option of relisting him at the end of next year.
In a statement on hawthornfc.com.au, Tuck said he accepted the consequences of his actions.
"I have been dealing with personal and medical issues for the past 12 months and following some intensive treatment I really felt that I had come a long way," Tuck said.
"Friday night was a big setback for me and I understand the anxiety it has caused my family, friends and the Hawthorn Football Club, and for that I am truly sorry. I know I have to keep working hard to deal with my issues and at times this will not be easy.
"This support and the ongoing structure in my life, along with the motivation to train and return to play will be a big part of my progress and my recovery."
The 22-year-old, who hasn't played a senior game this season, is out of contract.