Fair Catch signal

[john_faz]

In this case, R has the ability to stop the ball from advancing further to his goal line. K then does not get the advantage of having the grounded scrimmage kick gain further yards. I understand there is no penalty on R but it seems like they have an advantage in a small way. Especially, since K can not tackle R because the ball is dead.

It seems to me that K is at a disadvantage. If R signals for a fair catch and then does not catch it on the fly, are we to assume that all K players must know a fair catch signal was given? even though the ball was not caught in flight. What happens if K tackles the R player right after possession is gained, would you consider it a personal foul - late hit or would you grant K some leeway?