FLOWERY BRANCH -- Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank said Thursday he is 'saddened and distressed' over the indictment of Falcons quarterback Michael Vick.

In a statement released at Falcons headquarters Blank said 'we are working diligently on exploring our options and getting the right people involved in this situation.'

Blank did not address whether Vick will play for the team this season.

On the first day of training camp next Thursday, Vick will be in federal court for a hearing on the charges related to an illegal dogfighting ring.

Here is the full text of Blank's statement:

"We know you're anxious to hear more from us regarding the indictment of Michael Vick and its implications to the Falcons. Please be assured that we are working diligently on exploring our options and getting the right people involved in this situation. 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 decision. Given the differing perspectives and strong feelings around this issue, we probably won't make everyone happy; we are committed to doing the right thing. As the owner of this club that's ultimately my responsibility.

In the meantime, know that I'm saddened and distressed about this not for myself, but for our fans and community who have been so loyal to us. We will do our very best to earn your support."

Vick was indicted on federal charges Wednesday.

Channel 2 Action News sports reporter and anchor Bill Hartman is at Falcons headquarters in Flowery Branch and will have details on the announcement on Channel 2 Action News at 6.

In other developments, Vick called Blank and apologized for his indictment on dogfighting charges, according to ESPN.com.

Vick called Blank on Wednesday and is believed to have been 'contrite' on the call, according to the article written by Len Pasquarelli.

His legal problems won't keep Vick off the field.

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

A person with knowledge of the meeting, who requested anonymity, said the NFL will stick to that position for the time being, despite its new personal conduct policy.

In April, Goodell suspended Tennessee's Adam "Pacman" Jones for the 2007 season even though Jones had not been convicted of a crime. He did, however, have ten encounters with police and five arrests since he was drafted in 2005.

The NfL players' union took the same stance as the league. The union said yesterday that the allegations against Vick "are extremely disturbing and offensive." But it said the case is in the hands of the judicial system, and the legal process must be allowed to run its course.

Vick won't be on the field when the Atlanta Falcons open training camp a week from Thursday.

Instead, Vick and three associates must appear in Richmond, Virginia, for bond hearings and arraignments on dogfighting charges.