"A little bit of blocking, some routes, and I can make some plays when I get the ball in my hands," he said. "Really, just showing the coaches and teammates what I can do."
Consistency is crucial, he knows: "Catch the balls that come your way, trust in your timing and execute the blocks."
He acknowledged the game moves "a little faster" at this level, but he's found it to be an easier adjustment than maybe anticipated.
"I'm sure when game time comes around it'll be flying," Bartholomew laughed, "but I'm excited."
Plus, he has the privilege of learning from two of the best in the business, T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver. The pair of vets boast different skill sets, and the second-year player is gleaning all he can from both of them.
"They do it at a high level every day," he said. "I'm really just taking their coaching tips, and it's helped me and the other guys in the room."
In addition to Hockenson and Oliver, Bartholomew shares the position group with fellow youngsters Ben Yurosek, Bryson Nesbit and Marshall Lang. Nesbit has become Bartholomew's fishing buddy.
Getting out on the Minnesota lakes (or on the links) has been Bartholomew's preferred way to relax and reset when he's not in the facility, in the playbook or on the practice field.
He even tried a new adventure following the season by going ice fishing. Asked his official verdict on the frozen lake version, he grinned.
"It … wasn't the best," Bartholomew quipped. "I think I'll stick to summer fishing."