Bartlett was a rover and goalkicker who was known as 'Hungry' due to his preference for kicking rather than hand-balling, particularly near the goals. He is known for great evasiveness and stamina, he could win a game off his own boot. A winner of five premierships with Richmond, he also won the Norm Smith Medal in 1980 after kicking seven goals in the Grand Final. With 403 games, only Michael Tuck of Hawthorn & Brent Harvey of North Melbourne have played more VFL/AFL games. Bartlett was renowned for his skill and concentration on the game and was instrumental in many Tiger wins.