RICHMOND, Va. -- Falcons owner Arthur Blank made his first public comments Thursday on the federal indictment against his star player, Falcons quarterback Michael Vick.

Vick and three others were indicted by a federal grand jury Tuesday.

The four were charged with competitive dogfighting, procuring and training pit bulls for fighting and conducting the enterprise across state lines.

In a statement released to the media Thursday afternoon, Blank said "This is an emotionally charged and complicated matter. There are a wide range of interests and legal issues that need to be carefully considered as we move ahead, including our need to respect the due process that Michael is entitled to. Also, this situation affects everyone – our club, our players and associates, our sponsors, our fans and the Atlanta community among them – so we must consider all of our customers in making any decisions."

Vick reportedly apologized to Falcons owner Arthur Blank Wednesday, for his indictment on the dogfighting charges.

ESPN.com reported Thursday that Vick was "devastated" by the indictment. The report also said Vick thanked Blank for his support.

The news comes one day after Vick learned he will not be suspended by the NFL for now, despite his indictment on dogfighting charges.

After consulting with the Falcons, commissioner Roger Goodell and top league officials agreed Wednesday to let the legal process determine the facts.

Vick is scheduled to make his first court appearance on dogfighting charges July 26 at 3:30 p.m. in Richmond, Virginia.

That is one day after Vick was supposed to report to Falcons training camp in Suwanee.

Also Thursday, Nike is suspending the release of a new Michael Vick shoe that had been scheduled to hit stores next month, the company said.

The suspension is the latest result of the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback's indictment on federal dogfighting charges.

"Nike is concerned by the serious and highly disturbing allegations made against Michael Vick, and we consider any cruelty to animals inhumane and abhorrent," Nike said in a statement released Thursday.

"We do believe that Michael Vick should be afforded the same due process as any citizen; therefore, we have not terminated our relationship. We have, however, made the decision to suspend the release of the Zoom Vick V and related marketing communications.

"Nike will continue to monitor the situation closely and have no further comment at this time."