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     *Nike has done the Heisman on the Humane Society of the United States by turning down their written request to punt NFL quarterback Michael Vick from its roster of celebrity athletes.

      Humane Society president and CEO Wayne Pacelle on Tuesday released a letter that he sent to the apparel giant requesting that Vick’s endorsement deal be terminated over allegations that he is involved in illegal dogfighting.

      "We trust that Nike does not want to be associated with any celebrity who is linked to this odious form of animal cruelty," Pacelle wrote, according to AP.

      Pacelle’s letter also brought up the decision of AirTran Airways to end its relationship with Vick in May due to the dogfighting allegations. The Atlanta Falcons quarterback had appeared in the airline’s radio ads and billboard advertising since 2004.      

      "At the very least, Mr. Vick was not vigilant enough and an unacceptable situation developed on one of his properties," Pacelle wrote. "It remains to be seen whether all the personal accounts and information about his role in dogfighting are sufficient to connect Mr. Vick to the alleged dogfighting operation."

      Nike spokesman Dean Stoyer said the company planned to honor its multi-million dollar deal with Vick, who has designed a line of shoes and starred in advertising as part of his time with the company.     

      "There is no change in the status of the agreement between Nike and football player Michael Vick," Stoyer said. "He is rightfully presumed innocent and afforded the same due process as any citizen, rather than be tried in the court of public opinion. Nike will continue to monitor the situation, but has nothing further to say at this time."