I think it is more than that Dru. If Thorn wants to create culture that means zero tolerance against drugs it is actually hard to argue against his position as end of the day those players have done the crime!. Quade issue more complex and I don't purport to fully understand his reasons but equally I guess you want a coach prepared to make the hard decisions.
At this stage I would rather Hunt, and Slipper to play elsewhere with another oz franchise and even the Force in WSR than be lost to oz rugby. Same with Quade but he has turned down those opportunities. For me glad to see what these 3 players offer in NRC and if Quade plays well and no broader attitude issues behind Thorns position that yes Thorn reconsider.
Many seem to forget Quade's last season with the Reds was pretty forgettable form wise but yes lets see how he goes in NRC and indeed if plays well and no other issues would agree crazy not to bring Quade back in the fold given Lance now gone.
I am the same as you, would rather see these guys head elsewhere in Aus than lost.
Be nice to see the Reds do some wheeling and dealing with some other franchises to help strengthen their roster and boost some of the other Aus sides.
Slipper to Rebels for English - can play (11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
Hunt to Tahs for Gordon - could push Rona to wing and Hunt plays 13
Quade???
Maybe Perese if there is a problem for him at Reds
Get some value for these players to improve not only themselves but other aus teams as there is several players around that are Super Rugby standard or better not playing week in week out as they should be (Gordon, Naivalu, etc.)