Melbourne Storm veteran Ryan Hoffman hopes the Rise For Alex fundraising campaign is a catalyst for the rugby league community to better look after other injured players.
The NRL has dedicated the round to Alex McKinnon, who broke two vertebrae in a tackle against the Storm in round three which left the Newcastle forward paralysed.
Against Canberra on Saturday Storm skipper Cameron Smith will swap his No.9 jersey and wear No.16 - McKinnon's jersey in that match which has been retired by the Knights for the season.
Smith's No.16 jersey will be among a collection to be auctioned while the NRL will donate $1 to McKinnon's foundation for every fan in attendance at each game this weekend.
Hoffman said the idea for the league community to fund-raise for the 22-year-old was a great idea and he wanted to see it expanded.
"I'm hoping it's a catalyst for the NRL to push to help a lot of injured players who have unfortunately had to retire due to injury," Hoffman said.
Hoffman mentioned three former Wests Tigers Liam Fulton (concussion), Taniela Tuiaki (ankle) as well as Simon Dwyer (nerve damage) among a long list of players who have been forced into early retirement from the NRL through injury.
Hoffman said the NRL, Australian Rugby League and the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) all needed to work together.
A key component of the RLPA's CBA negotiations with the league are aimed at ensuring the welfare of injured players.
"It's a rugby league issue and everyone needs to work together to look after the players," Hoffman said.
"It's great the NRL is doing this for Alex and we're happy to support it; we'll do all we can to make sure he gets what he needs," Hoffman said.
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