Born in Maerdy, Glamorgan, Lewis first played for local clubs, before moving to London and joining Clapton Orient.
He made his debut for the Gunners on 15 November 1924 against Everton; Arsenal won 3–2 and Lewis remained for the next thirteen games.
In the 74th minute, Cardiff striker Hughie Ferguson hit a tame shot straight at Lewis, who dived down to make what should have been a comfortable save.
However, when they reached Wembley for their second Cup final in 1930, Lewis was injured in Arsenal's 6-6 semifinal tie with Leicester City.
Lewis hardly featured at all the following season, particularly after the signings of Bill Harper (for a second spell on a goalkeeper record fee of £4000) and Gerard Keizer.