Apples and oranges.
A passer is a runner until he passes the ball. Defenders are chasing him, trying to tackle him before he passes.
A punter in position to receive a snap is not a runner, nor is he as he releases the ball to kick it. That's why the defense is not allowed to make contact unless it's "unavoidable because it is not reasonably certain that a kick will be made." HELLO? Ring a bell?
BTW, I haven't seen these discussions that you speak. Right now, it's 2 for a flag, 1 against. You're losing.
