 Higgins did not re-sign with the Timbers in 2006, and instead played one more campaign in the USL Premier Development League with Orange County Blue Star while training with Chivas USA's reserve team, appearing in six MLS Reserve Division games without seeing any first-team action.In 2007, Higgins rejoined the Timbers and was mostly in the starting line-up.Higgins played primarily at left midfield, but was known as a utility player who can also fill in as outside defender.