Historically, Curly Lambeau has been credited as being the Packers' first head coach, although this is primarily due to the different rules of American football in the early 1900s.

Lambeau, as team captain, would call the plays during a game and also organized practices, tasks that are now allocated to the head coaching position.

[2] Ryan served as the head coach of the Green Bay West High School football team in 1916 and 1917.

[5] The Packers controversially lost the last game of the year to the Beloit Fairies to ruin their perfect record.

The controversy arose as the referee, which was provided by Beloit, called three separate penalties that negated three Packers' touchdowns.

Although the division of labor is not exactly known, the rules of American football in the early 1900s prevented the head coach from talking to the players during the game.

[2] Lambeau was also recognized for organizing the team, signing players, and conducting practices, all roles performed by a head coach in modern football.