Bartell played safety and receiver for Renaissance High School in Detroit, Michigan, from 1996 to 1999.

[1][2] He transferred to Howard University where he started in 38 out of 45 games and was an administration of criminal justice major.

The 2007 season was a career best in terms of tackles made as he ended the campaign with 67, along with one sack and two interceptions.

In 2007 Bartell started the first four games in place of right cornerback Fakhir Brown who was on the NFL suspended list.

In 2008 Bartell again began the season starting at right corner back for Fakhir Brown, who had a broken collar bone and was released and then re-signed.

After Brown returned, starting left cornerback Tye Hill was again hurt and placed on injured reserve.