John-Patrick Oates is a true freshman linebacker at Virginia Tech from Philadelphia, PA. He attended La Salle College High School, where he was a three-year starter at tight end and linebacker. During his senior season in 2025, he had 32 catches and six touchdown receptions while adding 32 tackles, five sacks, and five forced fumbles on defense. As a junior in 2024, he caught 47 passes for 567 yards and five scores. Oates earned First Team All-Catholic and First Team All-State honors. He helped lead La Salle to a PIAA Class 6 state championship, defeating Pittsburgh Central Catholic 34-20.

Virginia Tech2026 — present