June 21, 2009

(WVLT) -- The NFL is beckoning, and this time Arian Foster doesn't want to drop the ball.

The former Tennessee running back didn't hear his name called on draft day. He signed a free-agent deal with the Houston Texans, and he tells the Houston Chronicle he's ready to prove himself in the highest level of the game.

“I’m trying to make it," Foster said. "I don’t think I can waste a day or a snap.”

Foster says he thinks he's a good fit for the Texans' offensive approach.

“It’s a one-cut system, and I’m a one-cut back,” Foster said. “I feel like I can compete with any back in this league.”

Foster will battle Houston backs Steve Slaton, Chris Brown and Ryan Moats for a spot on the team. All are NFL veterans. If Foster is to succeed, he will have to fight for every opportunity.

"It’s a tough league," Foster said. "You have to have a tough mentality.”