It's probably semantics. Stafford requested a trade but said he would have played for the Lions if they didn't trade him. Demand is more forcing a trade or else you will hold out.
Stafford demanding/requesting a trade is the best thing that could have happened to Holmes. The decision is out of his hands. If Stafford never requested a trade and Holmes traded him and he wins a Super Bowl, Holmes would be blamed. If he keeps him and they continue to miss the playoffs and Stafford gets old and loses value, Holmes would be blamed. It worked out great, the Stafford supporters can now mock and humiliate Rob Parker and still be thrilled with Holmes.