In a statement released on Wednesday evening, AFL Players' Association CEO Brendon Gale commended Cousins on his rehabilitation from drug addiction, and his efforts to return to the game that has delivered him a Brownlow Medal and premiership glory.
But Gale also commented on what he called the AFL's "serious departure" from the provisions of the Illicit Drugs Policy, saying it could only be varied by the mutual consent of the League and the players' association.
"The AFL Illicit Drugs Policy has been created to govern all players," Gale said.
"The policy includes the capacity to deal appropriately with a situation whereby a player may require rehabilitation from an illness such as that resulting from illicit drugs. We believe the Illicit Drugs Policy remains the best vehicle to deal with any such occasions."
On Tuesday, the AFL lifted its ban on Cousins but placed strict conditions on any return to football, including up to three urine tests per week and four hair tests per year.
AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou was clear that any positive test results, or a failure by Cousins to abide by the conditions, would almost certainly result in his immediate suspension.
Gale said the AFLPA was considering information provided by AFL medical officers during a meeting on Wednesday, and would be commenting on the issue further after contacting player representatives.
