He attended college at Brigham Young University and was an All-American while there and received his bachelor’s degree in accounting. He played in the USFL for the Philadelphia Stars for three years. He was all-league three years and his team won the league championship twice. Signing with the New York Giants, Mr. Oates was named to the All-Pro team twice and played in three Pro Bowls. He joined the 49ers in 1994, Mr. Oates was selected by his peers to the Pro Bowl two more times.

Going to Law School in the offseason while playing allowed him to graduate, pass the bar and begin practicing with the law firm of Ribis, Graham, & Curtin in Morristown, New Jersey where he focused on litigation and real estate tax appeal work. After retiring from football, he both practiced law and worked in the real estate industry where he was a real estate broker. A partial list of his clients include: the New York Jets, American Express, Curtis Wright, iQor, Apos, Fitness and Wellness Professional Services.

He is currently President of Roofing Innovations NJ, a commercial roofing company that specializes in service and maintenance. He was President of the NFL Alumni Association advocating for former players to address issues that affect members as a result of being a professional athlete.

In addition to these positions, Mr. Oates maintains an active role in his community and his church, including former Chairman of the New Jersey Hall of Fame, and member of the Boy Scouts of America. He was also a board member of the NY/NJ Super Bowl Host Committee, Super Bowl 50 and served as the Bishop (lay pastor) of the Morristown, New Jersey congregation for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his wife, Michelle reside in Harding Township, New Jersey and have three children and five granddaughters.