NFL running back Cedric Benson is free on bond after his arrest in Austin on an assault count.

The former Texas Longhorns star was arrested early Sunday on a misdemeanor count of assault with bodily injury with family violence.

Travis County sheriff's spokesman Roger Wade says Austin police arrested him about 6 a.m. Sunday in downtown Austin.

In a statement, Benson attorney Sam Bassett says his client was arrested after "a conflict with a former male roommate" over Benson asking him to leave his home "became physical early this
morning."

Wade said Benson posted a $10,000 bond and was released just before 2 p.m. Sunday.

Benson is a free agent after ranking as the Cincinnati Bengals' leading rusher the past three seasons.