IFL Bay Area Panthers

Panthers Sign IFL Champion Defensive Lineman Kenton Bartlett

Published on January 5, 2023 under Indoor Football League (IFL)
Bay Area Panthers News Release


Kenton Bartlett and Rob Keefe may not be joined at the hip but the two are like-minded when it comes to football. That explains the reunion with the standout defensive lineman signing with the Bay Area Panthers.

Bartlett played for Keefe with the Iowa Barnstormers in 2021 and last year won an IFL Championship with Northern Arizona. The title-winning defense was coached by Keefe.

"It's his work ethic and strive for perfection. His track record has proven that," said Bartlett. "I like to win, as well. I want to be around a coach who works just as hard as the players. He makes the players really want to buy into all that."

Entering his third season, Bartlett sees no reason why the Panthers can't make a run at championship.

"I believe everything is possible," said Bartlett. "The pieces are lined up to go and be a successful team this year and it's time to go to work. I know there's good competition out there but we'll be ready to bring our best effort."

Bartlett played collegiately at Portland State as a key piece in Head Coach Bruce Barnham's first recruiting class in 2016. He started for three years, earning All-Big Sky honors on the field and in the classroom.

Like all players who shift from the outdoor game to the 50-yard field, there is a learning curve.

"Being shoulder to shoulder with the offensive lineman was an adjustment," said Bartlett. "Obviously, playing with the walls is different but you get used to it. Also, the no stunting and twisting on the defensive line are probably the biggest adjustments."

Bartlett joins former Northern Arizona teammates Darin Hungerford, Trae Meadows and Tevin Homer in pursuit of a championship ring. It took time to develop chemistry in 2022 and Bartlett believes the reunion in the Bay Area gives his team a significant edge.

"Early in the season, we were 2-2 and trying to build chemistry, especially on the defensive side of the ball." said Bartlett. "Having guys come in that you can trust, developed chemistry and won championships together is big deal. It's a new year and new team so we've got to bring our championship experience and knowledge to try to win another one."

The Boise, Idaho native remembers where he came from. In the fall, Bartlett coaches the defensive line at his alma mater, Centennial High School. Because of his IFL commitment, he misses the spring and summer workouts and arrives in time to get for the ready for the first game. Bartlett embraces the challenge and believes being a professional makes him a role model.

"I'd say so. For the kids, it's awesome for them to see someone who played college and professional football," said Bartlett. "Not a lot of people from Centennial have done that. It gives a lot of hope to young football players to do something special, as well."

When he takes the field at the SAP Center, Bartlett will have a built-in fan base. He has an aunt and uncle in Los Gatos and cousins who live in San Jose.

"It's good to have family around. They haven't been around a lot of my football games with their own families. It will be cool to have them there for the home games and be around the kids. It's all worked out well."

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Indoor Football League Stories from January 5, 2023


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