MICK Malthouse could help train and be a mentor to some of Essendon's banned 34 players this season.

The AFL coaching games record holder has been in discussions with the AFL, the players' association and one suspended Bomber about preparing the exiled players for 2017.

Twelve current Dons have been banned for doping offences as well as five of their former teammates now at other AFL clubs, with most of the suspensions expiring in November.

The players involved in the Bombers' 2012 supplements regime can train together, but must not have any guidance from their clubs.

Malthouse and his long-time fitness chief David Buttifant have gone into business offering leadership and practical methods for life balance since the triple-premiership coach was sacked by Carlton after round eight last season.

Malthouse told Fairfax Media it was still unclear whether a training program would be set up, given the need to solve logistical issues such as finding a training venue, insurance to cover injuries, employing a doctor and payment for the program.

But the former Collingwood and West Coast mentor has been reportedly been told by the AFL he can deal with the banned 34 and he's keen to prepare some of them for next year. 

"If the opportunity arose, I would love to help get them to September-October," Malthouse said. 

The banned 34 players this week appealed in the Swiss Federal Supreme Court the sentences handed down by the Court of Arbitration for Sport for doping offences.

However, they have not sought an injunction to play this season and the process is expected to take up to six months.

"The thing I want to see is (for the players to) get through the year in a good mental state – that's the priority," Malthouse said.

"Second, get fit in regard to getting ready for the following season ... and keep up with what's been going on.

"I want them to have ownership of their own life."

Malthouse will also coach AFL hopefuls during the second season of reality TV series The Recruit this year.