ATLANTA -- Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank said Tuesday that facts, not emotions, are needed in pursuing a course of action following quarterback Michael Vick's indictment on dogfighting charges.

Blank declined to say whether he envisions Vick playing for the Falcons again. He said that the allegations are unproven criminal charges, and the legal process has to be respected.

Blank said the team had suggested a four-game suspension by the NFL but is satisfied with action taken by Commissioner Roger Goodell, who has ordered Vick Monday to stay away from the team's training camp until a league review of the charges against him is completed.

Blank noted at a news conference Tuesday afternoon that Goodell has instructed the Falcons not to take any unilateral action on Vick's status pending the league review.

Blank did have one comment for Vick. "These charges are extremely serious. This is not about playing football in 2007. This is about having a life," Blank said.

Goodell said in a letter to the quarterback that although it is up to the criminal justice system to determine guilt or innocence, it is Goodell's responsibility as commissioner to determine whether Vick's conduct violated league policies, including the Personal Conduct Policy.

The NFL said Vick will still get his pre-season pay.

The Falcons open camp on Thursday, the same day Vick is scheduled to be arraigned in Richmond, Virginia, on charges of sponsoring a dogfighting operation.