L. Bartlett, D.C. United, Defender, #3: Career & Impact

Have you noticed how much steadier D.C. United’s backline looks this season? That’s not by accident. Wearing the #3 shirt, Lucas Bartlett anchors the defense with a kind of consistency and composure you don’t see every day in Major League Soccer.

He gives the team real balance. His ability to read the game keeps opponents from finding easy chances, and honestly, it’s refreshing to watch.

Bartlett, who made a name for himself at Drake and St. John’s, brings intelligence and physicality that really fit D.C. United’s defensive style. Since joining up, he’s earned a contract extension through 2027 (with an option for 2028), which says a lot about how much the club trusts his growth and leadership.

That confidence shows every time he steps on the pitch.

If you dig into his 2025 season, you’ll see his numbers back up what you see on the field. Tackles, interceptions, clearances—he just gets the basics right.

Bartlett’s journey through MLS, from early hurdles to becoming a D.C. United mainstay, shows how steady development and commitment can really pay off.

Profile of L. Bartlett: D.C. United Defender #3

Here’s a player who blends size, awareness, and consistency to keep D.C. United’s defense organized. Lucas Bartlett’s path from college soccer to MLS feels like a steady climb built on discipline and a clear sense of his role.

Personal Background

Lucas Allen Bartlett was born July 26, 1997, in Overland Park, Kansas. Maybe you know him now as a defender for D.C. United in Major League Soccer.

Before turning pro, he played college soccer at Drake University and then at St. John’s University. That’s where he really sharpened his defensive instincts and leadership.

His professional journey wound through several clubs, but the biggest leap came when he joined D.C. United in late 2023. His contract runs through 2027, with a club option for 2028, according to Transfermarkt.

Growing up in Kansas shaped his work ethic. He earned a reputation for reading the game and making smart decisions when it matters.

That steady presence turned him into a reliable figure in D.C. United’s back line.

Physical Attributes

Standing at 1.91 meters (6’3″) and weighing around 91 kilograms (200 pounds), Bartlett brings both strength and reach to his defensive duties. His size helps him win aerial duels and handle tough forwards.

You can see how he positions himself to block shots and intercept passes, not just relying on tackles.

He’s got good timing and anticipates plays well. That awareness really helps during set pieces, both defensively and in attack.

His physical profile fits what you want in a modern center back—strong, balanced, and quick enough to cover ground when needed.

Attribute	Measurement
Height	1.91 m
Weight	91 kg
Position	Center Back
Preferred Foot	Left
Club	D.C. United
Contract	Through 2027 (Option 2028)

Jersey Number and Position

You’ll spot Bartlett wearing the number 3 for D.C. United, which usually goes to central defenders. As a center back, he organizes the line, keeps the structure, and supports fullbacks when opponents push wide.

He’s not just a stopper, though. He chips in with short, accurate passes to start attacks from the back.

In the 2025 season, he’s averaged about two tackles, one interception, and five clearances per 90 minutes, according to John Eric Home Magazine.

His influence is clear—D.C. United concedes fewer goals with him on the field.

His mix of composure, communication, and positioning really defines his approach and locks him in as a key part of the club’s plans.

2025 Season Performance and Key Contributions

You’ve probably seen Lucas Bartlett grow into one of D.C. United’s most reliable defenders in MLS. He brings a balanced mix of physical presence, timing, and calm decision-making to every match.

His 2025 season really shows progress in defensive control, passing, and consistency across competitions.

Defensive Statistics

Bartlett’s defensive work stands out. Through the 2025 MLS season, he’s averaged 2 tackles and 1 interception per 90 minutes, according to John Eric Home Magazine.

That steady output proves he reads the game and reacts before danger even develops.

He positions himself well, often cutting off through balls before they reach the striker.

His one-on-one defending has improved, and he’s conceding fewer fouls in the defensive third compared to last season.

Metric	Per 90 Minutes	League Rank (Approx.)
Tackles	2.0	Top 25% of MLS defenders
Interceptions	1.0	Mid-tier
Fouls Conceded	0.7	Below league average

You can see his defensive maturity in the way he holds his shape under pressure. He doesn’t dive into risky challenges, instead choosing to delay attackers and force mistakes.

Passing and Ball Distribution

Bartlett’s passing has quietly become a strength. From the back, he completes over 85% of his passes, based on team data shared on LiveScore.

His short passing helps keep possession, and his mid-range diagonals stretch the field.

When you watch him, you’ll notice he keeps his head up, always scanning for options before the ball even gets to him.

That kind of awareness reduces turnovers and helps D.C. United move forward with purpose.

He averages about 45 passes per match, and sends roughly 6 long balls to teammates in attacking zones.

His composure under pressure lets the team reset instead of just clearing the ball in a panic.

Type	Success Rate	Purpose
Short Passes	90%	Build-up play
Long Passes	70%	Switch of play
Progressive Passes	75%	Advance possession

Aerial Duels and Clearances

At 1.91 meters tall, Bartlett dominates in the air. His timing and strength give him an edge during set pieces, both defensively and offensively.

Data from Transfermarkt puts him among D.C. United’s most reliable center-backs in aerial challenges.

He wins almost 70% of his aerial duels, often clearing danger before opponents can pounce.

During defensive corners, he usually positions himself near the penalty spot, tracking the main aerial threat.

Category	Per 90 Minutes	Success Rate
Aerial Duels	5.0	70%
Clearances	5.0	—
Headed Clearances	3.2	—

He averages five clearances per 90 minutes, always relieving pressure when it’s needed most.

You can count on him to handle crosses with minimal fuss.

Minutes Played and Consistency

Bartlett’s durability has made a big difference. He’s logged over 2,500 minutes in the 2025 MLS season, according to MLSsoccer.com.

He rarely misses matches due to injury or suspension, so D.C. United gets a stable presence at center-back.

His contract extension through 2027 ensures continuity for a defensive unit that’s improved its goals-against rate this year.

When you talk about consistency, you’re really looking for reliability, not just brilliance.

Bartlett brings that every week. He delivers focus, composure, and communication that keep the backline organized.

Season	Appearances	Minutes Played	Goals Conceded per 90
2025	28	2,500+	1.1

His steady influence has anchored D.C. United’s defense all season.

MLS Career Journey

A player’s path unfolds through choices, trades, and steady growth. Lucas Bartlett’s story shows how persistence and skill can turn early opportunities into a steady role in Major League Soccer.

His journey moves through the draft, developmental leagues, and into a starting spot for D.C. United.

Selection in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft

You first hear Lucas Bartlett’s name at the 2022 MLS SuperDraft, when FC Dallas picks him sixth overall.

Coming out of St. John’s University, he stood out for his size, defensive awareness, and leadership.

That draft spot showed real belief in his potential.

At 6’3”, Bartlett fit the modern center back mold—strong in the air, comfortable on the ball.

His college experience prepared him for the pace and structure of MLS play.

He joined a competitive roster in Dallas, where earning minutes wasn’t easy.

The early pro environment tested his adaptability, but it also gave him a clear view of what’s expected at the top level.

FC Dallas and North Texas SC Experience

Bartlett’s next step was a loan to North Texas SC, FC Dallas’s MLS Next Pro affiliate.

That move gave him consistent playing time, which is huge for a rookie defender learning the league’s rhythm.

He appeared in 13 matches for North Texas SC in 2022.

Those games helped him refine his timing on tackles and his positioning during transitions.

The coaching staff used the developmental setup to test him against younger, faster forwards.

Playing in MLS Next Pro helped him adjust to professional life without the full pressure of MLS matchdays.

It’s also where he started showing the calm decision-making that now defines his play for D.C. United.

Team	Year	Appearances	Goals	Assists
North Texas SC	2022	13	0	0

St. Louis City SC and MLS Next Pro

After Dallas declined his option, Bartlett signed with St. Louis City SC in March 2023.

That gave him another shot to prove he was ready for MLS competition.

He played 14 matches, started 12, and recorded one assist.

His numbers—25 interceptions and nearly 49 percent duel success—showed steady improvement.

St. Louis used him in a high defensive line, so he had to sharpen his reading of long passes and quick counters.

The club’s MLS Next Pro setup focused on player development, and regular starts helped him out.

His consistency in training and matches positioned him as a reliable option for teams looking for defensive depth.

Transition to D.C. United

Everything really shifted when D.C. United brought in Bartlett on December 12, 2023. The trade handed him a real shot to start week in and week out in MLS.

He made his debut on February 24, 2024, during a 3–1 win over the New England Revolution. Pretty quickly, he settled in as a regular on the backline.

His knack for winning headers and staying cool under stress earned him a contract extension through 2027, with an option for 2028.

In 2025, he led the team in minutes played and finished among the league’s best in aerial duels won. D.C. United’s staff often praised his professionalism and reliability, which really shows how far he’s come since draft day.

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists	Aerial Duels Won
2024	D.C. United	26	1	2	84

College and Youth Development

Bartlett’s early discipline and steady growth made him the defender he is now. His Kansas City roots gave him a strong base, and his college years at Loyola, Drake, and St. John’s sharpened his skills and leadership.

All those experiences set him up for the pro level.

High School Achievements in Kansas City

Growing up in Kansas City, Missouri, Bartlett focused early on defense. At St. Thomas Aquinas High School, he stood out for his height, calmness, and timing in the air.

Coaches leaned on him to organize the backline, especially during big regional tournaments.

He also played club soccer with Sporting Kansas City Academy. That program is known for producing MLS talent, and competing against top youth players pushed him to improve his positioning and decision-making.

Those matches helped him build confidence and learn to read the game several steps ahead.

By senior year, Bartlett earned local recognition for his steady play and leadership. He captained his team and helped secure multiple clean sheets in state competition.

His performances caught the eyes of college scouts throughout the Midwest.

Collegiate Career at Loyola, Drake, and St. John’s

Bartlett’s college journey took him through three different programs, and each one shaped him in its own way. He started at Loyola University Chicago, where he learned to play in a tightly organized defensive system.

After two seasons, he transferred to Drake University and took on a bigger role, improving his passing from the back.

For his final college season, he landed at St. John’s University in New York. There, he balanced defending with leadership, anchoring a backline that ranked among the Big East’s best.

He stood out for winning headers and starting counterattacks, making himself a key contributor.

College Statistics Summary

School	Seasons	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Loyola Chicago	2016–2017	32	1	1
Drake University	2018–2019	34	3	2
St. John’s University	2021	20	3	1

Awards and Honors

Bartlett’s steady rise shows up in his college honors. At Loyola, he earned Missouri Valley Conference All-Freshman Team recognition.

At Drake, he landed on the All-MVC First Team for his defensive play and leadership.

During his time at St. John’s, Bartlett made the All-Big East First Team and the United Soccer Coaches All-Region Team. His consistency at every stop showed scouts he could adapt and stay professional.

He also picked up academic honors along the way, balancing school and soccer. That kind of discipline carried over to his pro career with D.C. United, where he’s still known for his preparation and focus.

Contract and Club Commitment

Bartlett has earned people’s trust through steady play and leadership. His new deal says a lot about how D.C. United values reliability and long-term planning right now.

Contract Extension Through 2027

D.C. United signed Lucas Bartlett to a contract extension running through 2027, with a club option for 2028. They announced the move in August 2024, showing real confidence in his growth and reliability as a starting center back.

You can check out more details in D.C. United’s official announcement.

Bartlett joined D.C. United in December 2023 after a trade from St. Louis City SC. Since then, he’s become a regular starter and one of the team’s most durable players.

At 27 when he signed, he’s right in his athletic prime.

Here’s a look at his 2024 stats before the extension:

Statistic	Total	MLS Rank
Matches Played	26	—
Minutes Played	Team Leader	—
Aerial Duels Won	84	2nd in MLS
Goals	1	—
Assists	2	—

This deal gives the roster some stability and rewards Bartlett’s steady form. For fans, it’s a signal the team wants to build its defense around players who show up every week.

Role Under Ally Mackay and Club Leadership

Ally Mackay, D.C. United’s General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer, has made defense a real focus. Mackay praised Bartlett’s ability to read the game and his impact on the backline, calling him “a pivotal part of our defense.”

Head coach Troy Lesesne also pointed out Bartlett’s professionalism and work ethic. You can see that in how often he starts and how rarely he comes off the field.

He leads by example, which fits the culture Mackay and Lesesne are building.

Bartlett does more than just defend. He organizes the backline, talks with midfielders, and brings a physical edge on set pieces.

That mix of skill and reliability really explains why the club locked him up through 2027.

Both sides show real trust here. D.C. United gets a proven defender, and Bartlett gets long-term security with a club that values what he brings and matches his goals.

Playing Style and On-Field Strengths

Lucas Bartlett comes across as a steady, smart defender. He values positioning, timing, and talking to teammates more than flashy plays.

His size, sense of the game, and calm choices give D.C. United’s back line real structure.

You can see the discipline and awareness that reflect both his experience and his college days at Drake.

Defensive Techniques

Bartlett’s defensive style relies on anticipation and body control. At 6-foot-3, he uses his reach to block passes and win headers.

His timing in tackles keeps fouls down and makes it tough for attackers to get by.

He almost never dives in—he waits for the right moment to step in or force a mistake. Tracking runs and adjusting his position make him dependable in one-on-one situations.

This season, he’s averaging about 2 tackles and 1 interception per 90 minutes, according to John Eric Home Magazine.

That kind of consistency shows how often he breaks up plays without losing shape.

Metric (per 90 mins)	Value
Tackles	2.0
Interceptions	1.0
Clearances	5.0
Fouls Committed	Low

His calm under pressure helps D.C. United reset quickly after defensive stops. His fundamentals really anchor the team’s back line.

Leadership and Communication

Bartlett values clear communication, and it shows. He’s always talking to teammates, directing the defensive line, and helping younger players stay in the right spots.

His voice matters because he leads by example, not just by shouting.

As a center back, he reads the field well and adjusts the team’s shape during transitions. That awareness keeps gaps from opening up between defenders and midfielders.

D.C. United extended his contract through 2027 in part because of that leadership, as you can see in their official announcement.

He brings calm even when the team’s under pressure. You’ll notice how he slows things down, helping others get back in position.

That steadiness builds trust across the back line and keeps the defense balanced.

Impact as a Center Back

You can really see Bartlett’s influence in the way D.C. United defends together. This season, the team gives up just one goal every 50 minutes, which feels like a big step forward with him on the field.

He positions himself well and shuts down a lot of those dangerous shots opponents try to take.

As a center back, he mixes physical play with smart decisions on the ball. He’ll start attacks with short, accurate passes to get the ball out of trouble.

He’s also strong in the air, which helps the team on set pieces—on both ends, honestly.

Transfermarkt shows Bartlett’s market value keeps climbing, which kind of says a lot about his steady progress.

His size, awareness, and discipline really make him a dependable piece of D.C. United’s defensive core.