Chris Scott says there are still many discussions to take place behind closed doors before a decision is made on whether Jimmy Bartel plays on next season.
"We don't confirm specifics of contracts," Scott said on Fox Footy's AFL 360 program on Monday night.
"Jimmy has a decision to make, Corey Enright has a decision to make, and the club has a part to play in that as well.
"We have worst-case-scenario discussions with players right across the list.
"I remember in my first year, in 2011, I had a discussion with Cameron Ling in the pre-season about 'What would we do if this season doesn't work out well for you?'
"I think that's just prudent planning and it's a good conversation to have up front.
"It's not to say that we expect it to happen, or it's likely, but we need to be prepared as much as possible for that situation that might be a bit uncomfortable."
Bartel, who played his 300th game, has been in good form in recent weeks.
But the 32-year-old is unlikely to make a public declaration about his future until after the season.
"He might decide not to [play]," Scott said. "That's a live possibility.
"It's not my expectation necessarily, but Jimmy has a very, very big say on what's going to happen over the next 15 months."