SEATTLE — Commissioner Roger Goodell is beginning to focus on evaluating Michael Vick’s future in the NFL.

That doesn’t mean a decision will come any time before the 2009 regular season begins in September.

Goodell said yesterday his decision on whether to reinstate the former Falcons star quarterback, convicted on federal charges of running a dogfighting ring, will come “in due time.”

The Associated Press asked the commissioner during a telephone interview if he is seeing signs yet in Vick of remorse and contrition. Goodell has outlined those as prerequisites to possibly granting Vick’s wish to resume his career. “No, we’re beginning to focus on evaluating the situation. I haven’t spoken to him,” Goodell said. The commissioner said he won’t sit down with Vick until after the former quarterback is released July 20 from home confinement and federal custody.